Chapter 2: (Aaira's pov)
6 September, 1818.

The world was a blur as I struggled to open my eyes, the weight of my eyelids feeling like a mountain pressing down on me. I blinked slowly, the dim light filtering through the room gradually coming into focus.

The familiar scent of our bedchamber filled my senses, a mix of lavender and the lingering fragrance of Jungkook's cologne. I was home. I remember nothing.

The warmth that enveloped me was comforting, like a cocoon shielding me from the horrors of the past. As I slowly regained awareness, I realized I was wrapped in our soft duvet, my body sinking into the plush mattress beneath me. How long have I been here? It felt like an eternity and yet just a moment.

I tried to move my fingers, and to my surprise, they responded, albeit weakly. The sensation of my fingertips brushing against the fabric of the blanket was almost foreign, as if I had forgotten what it felt like to have control over my own body. Encouraged by this small victory, I focused on moving my feet. Slowly, they responded, a faint tingle spreading through my legs.

A surge of determination coursed through me. I had to see him, to let him know I was still here, still fighting. I turned my head, the effort causing a slight ache, but it was a small price to pay.

My eyes scanned the room, but there was no one. My body was still weak, my eyes barely adjusting to the light. I tried to move my arm to scan the bed, hoping to feel the reassuring presence of Jungkook, but the bed was empty. He wasn't here.

Suddenly, I heard footsteps approaching the room. My heart raced as I closed my eyes, pretending to be asleep. The door creaked open, and I heard it close again. The soft murmur of voices reached my ears. There were two people. Who could it be?

Their footsteps were cautious, as if they didn't want to disturb me. I strained to hear their conversation, hoping to recognize the voices. One was distinctly familiar.

Eerah: She's still so weak.

One of them whispered, the voice gentle and soothing.

Eerah: We need to make sure she's comfortable and not in pain.

I recognized the voice immediately. It was Eerah, our trusted family physician. One of my best friends from the royal academy era. Her presence brought me calm, knowing she was here to help.

Jungkook: She's been through so much.

The other voice responded, filled with worry and love. It was Jungkook.

Jungkook: I can't bear to see her suffer like this.

Jungkook' s voice showed how much he was concerned for me.

I decided to remain in this state, wanting to know more about what had happened while I was unconscious. Jungkook's concern was palpable, and I needed to understand the gravity of the situation.

Eerah: I understand your desperation, My Lord, but it's been 20 days. We're losing all our hopes.

There was a tense silence, and then suddenly, I heard the sound of something shattering. Jungkook had thrown a vase against the wall in frustration. I nearly flinched at the sound but managed to keep my eyes closed, my heart pounding in my chest.

Jungkook: You can't give up on my wife!

His voice was filled with raw emotion, desperation lacing every word.

Jungkook: She's strong. She'll wake up. We just need to give her more time!

Eerah: My Lord, we've tried everything. The medicines, the treatments, they're not working as we hoped. We need to consider other options.

Jungkook: What other options? We can't just let her fade away!

Eerah: I know it's hard, but sometimes, the body needs more than what we can give. She's been through unimaginable trauma. Her mind and body need to heal at their own pace. Or I don't even know if the treatment we're doing will work on her.

Jungkook: No, I refuse to accept that. There has to be something more we can do. I can't lose her, Lady Malik. She's my everything.

There was a heavy silence, I could feel the anguish in his voice, the pain of watching someone he loved suffer without being able to help.

Eerah: I'll keep searching, My Lord. I promise you, I won't give up on her. But we need to prepare ourselves for all possibilities. Please accept the fact.

Jungkook: No. I won't prepare for anything but her recovery. She will wake up. She has to. There's no way I'm ready to let her go.

I wanted to reach out to him, to reassure him that I was still here, but my body was still too weak. Instead, I listened as the conversation continued, I don't know what Eerah was saying, and if it was true.

Eerah: I'll do everything in my power to help her, My Lord. But you need to take care of yourself too. She wouldn't want you to destroy yourself over this.

Jungkook: She's my life, Eerah. Without her, there's nothing left.

His words cut through me like a knife. I could hear the heartbreak in his voice, the depth of his love for me.

Eerah: I know. We'll keep trying. But promise me you'll rest. You need your strength too.

There was a pause, then a heavy sigh from Jungkook.

Jungkook: I'll try. But I won't stop fighting for her.

Eerah: Neither will I. My lord You should rest.

Their conversation faded as they moved towards the door, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I had to find a way to come back to them, to show Jungkook that his love and faith were not in vain.

My mind felt like it was slipping away again, but the door creaked open, and from the pace of the footsteps, I could tell it was Jungkook. He approached the bed quietly, I felt the bed dip slightly as he sat beside me.

Jungkook gently lifted me, helping me to sit up and rest against the headboard. His touch was tender, careful not to cause me any pain. My body still felt weak, but the warmth of his hands made me feel alive. He held a bowl of soup, the aroma wafting through the room.

He began to feed me, spoonful by spoonful, his movements were slow. Tears welled up in my eyes, but I tried to hold them back, not wanting to show my vulnerability. Though I couldn't see his face clearly, I could hear his voice.

Jungkook: You know that I can't let you go.

His voice was soft.

Jungkook: You can't leave me, my love.

I swallowed the soup he offered, the warmth spreading through my body.

Jungkook: I'm nothing without you. And please know the fact that I can't lose you again.

His voice trembled slightly. He continued to feed me, his hands steady even as his heart broke.

Jungkook: Please, Aaira, stay with me. I need you. They all are scattering my hopes, they all are saying you might not survive, But they don't know, It's not you only, It's we. We might not survive.

His words broke my heart, how could someone love me this much ? With each spoonful, he repeated his pleas.

Jungkook: You're my everything. Without you, I'm lost. My family, They all are saying you might leave us again, and forever this time. They are asking me to let you go. Have they lost their minds ? Are they insane or what?

The tears I had been holding back finally spilled over, streaming down my cheeks. I couldn't hide my emotions any longer.

Jungkook: We'll get through this together, I promise. Just stay with me please.

Summoning all the strength I had left, I slowly opened my eyes. Jungkook seemed shocked, his eyes widening in disbelief. He quickly leaned forward and hugged me, careful not to put too much pressure on my fragile body. I felt his tears on my neck as he started crying, his shoulders shaking with sobs.

Jungkook: Aaira, you're awake! I can't believe it!

I managed to speak.

Aaira: Jungkook, it's okay. I'm here. Please don't cry.

He pulled back slightly, his eyes searching mine for any sign that this was real.

Jungkook: Aaira, I was so scared. They all said... they said you might not make it.

I reached up with a trembling hand, wiping away his tears.

Aaira: But I did. I'm here with you, I don't care about what they say anymore, I'm here.

Jungkook let out a shaky breath,

Jungkook: I can't lose you again. I won't let you go.

I squeezed his hand, trying to infuse him with some of the strength I felt returning.

Aaira: You won't lose me, I'm back right ?

He nodded, his grip on my hand tightening.

Jungkook: I love you so much. I can't imagine my life without you.

I smiled weakly.

Aaira: I love you too, Jungkook. You've been my strength. Thank you for never giving up on me.

His eyes softened, and he leaned in to press a gentle kiss on my forehead.

Jungkook: I will always fight for you, Aaira. Always.

Jungkook gently laid me back against the pillows, his movements careful and tender. He leaned in, pressing his lips against mine in a soft, lingering kiss.

Jungkook: Please rest, Aaira. I'll go tell everyone how wrong they all were.

I smiled and nodded,

Aaira: I'll be right here when you get back.

Jungkook: You better be.

He gave me one last reassuring look before standing up and quietly leaving the room. As the door closed behind him, I let out a sigh of relief.

I closed my eyes again, hoping for some rest, but suddenly a glimpse of a girl flashed in my mind. The vision was unsettling. I felt an overwhelming need for water and stretched my hand towards the night table, trying to grasp the glass. As my fingers brushed against the table, my eyes fell on the open drawer and a piece of paper inside.

Carefully, I picked up the glass, drinking the water slowly. The cool liquid soothed my parched throat, bringing a small measure of relief. Once finished, my curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to reach out for the letter in the drawer. My body still felt numb, and it was difficult to move.

With great effort, I managed to pull the drawer open a bit more and retrieve the letter. My hands trembled as I unfolded the paper, the words blurry at first. As my eyes adjusted, I began to read.

_______________________________

Dear Love Of My Life,

I hope this letter finds you well. I apologize for my sudden departure, and i couldn't tell you much at the moment, you know where I am, and everything about my life.

I got a little time so here I'm spending it to write a letter to my love, these urgent matters required my immediate attention, like you know. Please know that I am safe and will return to you as soon as possible.

It would be a lie if I say I've not been missing you like crazies, I would have chuckled I would have been in there talking to you, I love you....

It's been a while since I've met you my love and i miss you more than i could express, all of those people, who think can keep me away from you will eventually regret one day, or maybe rest of their life.

I know how scared you become whenever I leave you alone all by yourself, and i can't even imagine how you must be living without me, lately.

I don't know how you are, where are you, and every if you'll read this letter, if you're reading this letter, then I'm really greatful, My dear Aaira.

Huh, besides you always kept asking me about our son, it's been a while since you've last asked for him, I miss your voice asking for him, like you always do with a pout.

I'm losing my temper and my patience all together cause, I miss your voice, your embrace, your body, your kisses, your hugs and most of all I miss you.

I want you to know, there's no need to be scared of anything my love, cause you know no matter what your Lord will find a way back to you again, don't be my scaredy baby.

You haven't asked but yet I should tell you, our son is doing extremely good and fine, I was waiting for you to ask about him but you didn't, as soon as I meet you again, I'll take you to meet our son.

I know you must be trembling with fear right now, searching for me cause you couldn't live without me. It's a pretty weakness to be honest to love someone to an extent, but you're strong, My lady.

I really wish YOU read it, cause I'm genuinely risking myself when writing this pretty piece of letter to you, I know you're missing me, and I know you must want me to be with you but...

In the meantime, until I'm not there with you, I have instructed the staff to ensure your safety and well-being. Please do not hesitate to reach out to them if you need anything. Or if they are lacking at anything,,, just let your husband know, I'll kill them... Haha it's funny isn't it ?

I love you and I love you more than anything in this world, I'll keep saying it until you can actually hear it in your heart, My Jeon Aaira.

I miss you, Take care of yourself, my love. All I want to see at those fucking lips that I devour is a smile. Wait for one more week.

Yours always,
Your lord Jungkook.

_________________________________

As I read the letter, my blood ran cold. A sudden wave of jealousy washed over me. The letter was already opened; it was from Jungkook, written during the time I was gone. He was in danger, I saw blood stained at the corner. A realization hit me harder than a rock-Y/N must have read it, pretending to be me.

I picked the second letter to know what Jungkook had written for me but what she had read, I continued reading though my body was burning. Each word felt like a stab to my heart, knowing someone else had seen his deepest feelings meant for me alone.

I was not okay with the fact she lived with my husband, and I was not even okay with the fact Jungkook didn't recognised it was not me but someone else.

_________________________________

My Dearest Love, My Aaira,

I hope this letter finds you well and safe. I find myself once again in a precarious situation, but I write to you with the hope that my words will reach you and bring you some comfort, My love. All I want is my Aaira to read my words, no one else. No one else should reply then her.

I miss you, my Aaira, Every moment apart from you feels like an eternity, and I yearn for the day when we can be together once more. I really love you so much, My love may things try to keep us apart but I swear I'll be there for you once again, cause I love you so much.

You don't have to reply to this letter. I don't want YOU to reply, but know that my love for My Aaira remains untouched, no one in this filthy world could be the owner of my heart, no matter the distance between us. I know some people are wanting to separate both of us but I swear it's just a matter of one week, and I'll be back.

But I've planned a surprise for you, i hope you love love love your surprise.

I love you so much, i hope you find your way back to me once again, I'll be with you just a little more, my love.

Yours only and forever,
Jeon Aaira's Jeon Jungkook.

_________________________________

Tears blurred my vision as I read his words, the pain and longing in them clearly. Jungkook had poured his heart into these letters, his love for me evident in every line. But knowing Y/N had read them, had seen his deepest emotions, made my heart ache with jealousy and anger.

I clenched the letter tightly, my hands trembling. How could Y/N have intruded upon this intimate moment meant only for me and Jungkook?

I carefully folded the letter and threw it back in the drawer, trying to calm the storm of emotions inside me. Jungkook's love and faith in me were the anchors I needed to hold onto. I couldn't let this jealousy consume me. I had to focus on my recovery, on getting back to him.

But somehow, I was still staring at those letters, tears spilling from my eyes, when a light knock on the door startled me from my reverie. I slowly hummed in response, trying to compose myself, I quickly wiped my tears. The door swung open wide, and I couldn’t believe who I was looking at. It was Reyez, Rey for short, my cousin sister.

The last time I had seen her was before my marriage; she had been abroad during the entire ceremony. As she stepped into the room, I took in her familiar features.

Aaira: Rey!

I gasped, unable to believe my eyes. She looked just as I remembered, though a bit more grown-up. But, her deep brown eyes still sparkled with warmth as much as it used to do, and her dark black hair, laced with a hint of crimson red, cascaded over her shoulders like a waterfall of night.

Reyez: Hey! I heard about your state, so...

She clearly was hesitating.

Reyez: Scarlet sent to me, A letter... It told me about your condition. So, I came check on you.

She said, her voice bubbling with energy, but somewhere she was nervous, as if she was searching for a better choice of words. She approached cautiously, perching herself on the edge of the bed to avoid crowding me, aware of my fragile state.

Reyez: I’ve been here for the past four days, waiting for you to come out of your shell.

And suddenly she was so excited, she continued, her smile was infectious.

Reyez: I was starting to think I’d have to break down this door, they didn't let me see you!

I couldn’t muster the energy to smile, but the familiar lightness in her tone was comforting.

Reyez: I swear to god, I was about to punch, Jungkook.

I pinched her cheeks lightly.

Aaira: Don't be like that....

She started pouting.

Reyez: So you care about your husband more than your sister now ? Oh my god, so many things has changed.

I chuckled.

Aaira: You'll understand when you'll get married.

She gasped dramatically.

Reyez: Oh please, Spare me the drama, I'm never getting married.

Aaira: We will see.

Reyez: For sure, you will.

I nodded sarcastically, she stared at me with a pout. As I looked into her eyes, the floodgates opened, and I threw my arms around her, pulling her close.

Aaira: I missed you so much, Rey.

I whispered, my voice muffled against her shoulder. Rey wrapped her arms around me, holding me tightly.

Reyez: I missed you too. But it’s okay now; I’m here.

She said softly, her voice was so soothing.

Reyez: You don’t have to face this alone.

Pulling back slightly, I wiped my tears and managed a small nod, feeling a sense of relief wash over me.

Aaira: I didn’t expect to see you. How long are you staying?

Reyez: For as long as you need me.

She replied, her expression is earnest.

Reyez: Scarlet told me everything, and I want to help you through this.

Hearing her mention Scarlet's name brought back a fresh wave of memories. I remained quiet, struggling to articulate the turmoil inside me.

Reyez: Hey.

She said, tilting my chin up gently to meet her gaze.

Reyez: You don’t have to figure everything out right now. We can take it one step at a time. I’m not going anywhere.

We sat together, for a moment. After a few moments of comfortable silence, Rey gently patted my back. She looked at me with a warm smile, though her eyes held a trace of concern.

Reyez: I should get going now.

She said softly, standing up from the edge of the bed.

Reyez: You need to rest, Aaira. You’ve been through so much, and I don’t want to overwhelm you.

I nodded slightly, my throat still tight with emotion, but I appreciated her understanding. She leaned down, brushing a stray strand of hair from my face.

Reyez: I’m just downstairs if you need me, okay? Don’t hesitate to summon me?

I watched as she made her way to the door, her energy was the same even as she was leaving. She paused, turning back one last time.

Reyez: We’ll talk more later. But for now, take care of yourself, alright?

With that, Rey quietly slipped out of the room, leaving me in the dim quiet once again. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. I needed to confront these feelings of jealousy and insecurity head-on, for the sake of our relationship and my own sanity. Jungkook's love was all mine, and I couldn't let anything, not even Y/N's intrusion, weaken our bond.

I wiped away the tears and vowed to cherish every moment I could share with Jungkook when he returned. Opening my eyes, I whispered softly to myself.

Aaira: Aaira, be strong. Jungkook loves you, and that's all that matters.

As I tried to gather my thoughts and calm my racing heart, I took a deep breath, attempting to meditate to regain my composure. But as soon as I closed my eyes, the horrifying memories of what I had been through flooded my mind.

I quickly opened my eyes, my breath shallow and uneven. Just then, the door creaked open.

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"Jealousy burned through me like an unyielding fire, scorching my soul with every word I read. His words, intended solely for me, were laid bare to another's eyes, and the pain cut deep."

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