Morning came too soon, casting gentle sunlight through the bedroom curtains, yet there was a heaviness that hung over the Jeon household. Arin woke slowly, her hand instinctively reaching for the empty side of the bed. Jungkook hadn’t returned last night. She didn’t know where he had gone after his harsh words, and though part of her had wanted to go looking for him, something held her back. The ache of his absence echoed in her chest, but she told herself to stay composed. Today, she would be brave.

Downstairs, the dining room was quiet, a heavy silence blanketing the space. As Arin entered, she could sense the strained tension among the family members. Soojin and Minho sat stiffly, their expressions showing the toll of yesterday’s discord. Taehyung and Miso were seated as well, their eyes shifting cautiously between each other and the others in the room. And then there was Jungkook, sitting at the far end of the table, his face unreadable as he stared intently at his plate, avoiding eye contact with everyone.

Taking her seat beside Soojin, Arin took a calming breath, feeling the weight of unspoken words pressing on the air. Silence surrounded them all, heavy and awkward, each clink of cutlery seeming to echo louder than it should. She wanted to bring light back to this room, to find a way to lift everyone’s spirits. She glanced around, her gaze finally resting on Jungkook, but he seemed absorbed in his own world, distant and cold.

Gathering her courage, Arin cleared her throat gently. “I, um… I have some news to share.”

Soojin looked up immediately, curiosity mingling with her usual warmth. “News? What is it, dear?”

Arin gave a small, hopeful smile as she met Soojin’s gaze, letting a hint of her excitement seep into her voice. “Yesterday, we found out the baby’s gender,” she announced softly.

The tension in the room began to dissolve, replaced by glimmers of anticipation. Minho’s stern expression softened, a glint of intrigue replacing the worry in his eyes. “You did?” he asked, his voice carrying a hint of warmth that had been absent earlier.

Arin nodded, her heart swelling as she looked around the table, wanting to share her joy with the family. “Yes… we’re having a son.”

A collective gasp filled the room, and the faces that had moments ago been shadowed with worry now bloomed with happiness. Soojin’s face lit up, her earlier sadness melting away in an instant as she reached out to clasp Arin’s hand. “A son!” she exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion. “Oh, Arin, that’s wonderful news.”

Across the table, Minho’s expression shifted, pride and joy mingling in his gaze. “A grandson,” he said, his voice deep and steady, as though savoring each word. He leaned forward slightly, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Congratulations, Arin. This is… truly a gift.”

Miso let out a delighted laugh, clapping her hands in excitement. She turned to Taehyung, her eyes sparkling with joy. “Did you hear that, Tae? So Mun is going to have a little brother soon! Isn’t that amazing?”

Taehyung’s usually stoic face softened into a rare, genuine smile as he nodded. “It’s incredible news. Congratulations, Arin.” He cast a glance at Jungkook, offering a nod of acknowledgment, but Jungkook remained silent, his face expressionless as he continued staring at his plate.

Minho, noticing Jungkook’s silence, cleared his throat and spoke with a slight edge. “Jungkook,” he said firmly, drawing his son’s attention, “aren’t you going to say something? This is a moment to be celebrated. You’re about to be a father to a son.”

Jungkook looked up briefly, the flicker of an unreadable emotion crossing his face. “Yes… of course. I am happy,” he murmured, but his voice lacked the warmth everyone else was feeling, and he quickly looked away, his gaze fixed somewhere far beyond the table.

Arin’s heart swelled, watching the joy her announcement had brought. For the first time in days, there was laughter around the table, the once-tense atmosphere replaced by hopeful anticipation. And yet, despite the warmth filling the room, her attention was drawn back to Jungkook. While everyone else celebrated, he seemed distant, his body present but his spirit withdrawn.

The others exchanged glances, an uncomfortable silence settling over the group once more. Arin’s heart clenched, feeling Jungkook’s detachment as though it were a physical blow. She wanted to reach out, to find a way to bridge the distance between them, but his walls felt impenetrable.

Still, After a moment’s hesitation,she tried, forcing a gentle smile as she leaned a little closer to him. “Jungkook, if there’s anything you need… anything at all, I’m here,” she offered, her voice soft and hopeful.

Jungkook’s face remained cold,He barely lifted his gaze, his jaw tense as he replied in a low voice, laced with an unmistakable edge.  “I’m fine,” he muttered, his tone curt. “I just need to pack my things. I’ll be leaving early tomorrow.”

A slight tremor passed through Arin’s heart, her smile faltering ever so slightly. She fought to maintain her composure, a soft, bittersweet smile finding its way to her lips as she nodded. The words struck Arin like a sudden chill, and she felt her smile waver, swallowing the knot of disappointment in her throat, though she quickly masked her sadness, nodding gently. “I… understand,” she managed, her voice steady despite the ache blooming in her chest. “if… if there’s anything you need before you go, just let me know..”

Minho’s gaze darkened slightly at Jungkook’s dismissive tone, a silent tension simmering between father and son. But rather than press further, he let out a quiet sigh, turning back to Arin with a warmer expression. “You’ve given us something wonderful, Arin. Thank you for bringing joy to this family,” he said, his voice low and filled with sincerity.

Arin offered him a grateful smile. “I’m just happy to have all of you here,” she replied softly, though her gaze flickered back to Jungkook, her heart still heavy with unspoken words.

The room continued to hum with conversation, but Arin could feel herself retreating into her thoughts, the earlier joy overshadowed by a quiet ache. She turned her focus back to the others, masking her emotions behind polite smiles and gentle laughter as Soojin and Minho spoke excitedly about the baby.

“So Mun will have a cousin to play with soon,” Soojin mused, her voice light and happy as she imagined the two children growing up side by side.

The rest of the breakfast passed with the family animatedly discussing the arrival of the baby, laughter and joy gradually filling the room once more. Soojin and Minho spoke eagerly about preparations for their future grandson, discussing possible names and imagining the joy he’d bring to their lives. Miso playfully nudged Taehyung, whispering about how their son So Mun would now have a younger cousin to look out for.

Arin did her best to join in, smiling and nodding along with their excitement, but her attention kept drifting back to Jungkook, who seemed to shrink further and further into himself. The happiness that had blossomed around the table felt like a distant echo to him, and she could see it in his eyes—the silent loneliness, the sense of being apart from them all. She reached for his hand under the table, but he subtly pulled away, the brief gesture stinging more than she could’ve prepared for.

After breakfast, Arin stood up, gathering her things for work. She turned to Soojin, offering her a reassuring smile. “I’ll be heading to the office to wrap up the last few things,” she explained, her voice gentle. “I promised I’d start my maternity leave soon.”

Soojin smiled warmly, concern mingling with pride in her eyes. “Don’t overwork yourself, Arin. We need you to rest as well, especially now.”

Arin nodded, feeling Soojin’s support bolster her. “I’ll be back soon. Just a few last things.”

As she turned to leave, her gaze lingered on Jungkook, a fleeting hope that he might say something, anything, to bridge the silence between them. But he stayed quiet, looking away, his expression unreadable. A dull ache spread through her chest as she walked out the door, feeling his presence retreat behind her like a shadow she couldn’t reach.

The rest of the day was a blur, the quiet pain of the morning following Arin through her tasks at the office. She worked diligently, determined to finish everything for her leave, but Jungkook’s distant gaze haunted her thoughts, his coldness leaving an imprint she couldn’t shake.

And then, in the early morning hours, while the house was still shrouded in pre-dawn silence, Jungkook quietly packed his bags. He moved through the house like a ghost, his steps light, his gaze fixed forward. Arin watched from the top of the stairs, her heart heavy as she saw him slipping away. She made her way down, catching him just as he was about to step outside.

“Take care of yourself,” she murmured softly, her voice steady, though her heart felt like it was breaking. She forced a gentle smile, hoping he’d at least meet her halfway.

Jungkook gave her a quick nod, his face impassive. “You too,” he replied shortly, the words clipped and distant.

And then he was gone, his figure vanishing into the early morning mist, leaving behind a silence that echoed through the empty house. Arin stood there, watching the doorway he’d disappeared through, a sense of emptiness settling over her. It felt like something precious had slipped through her fingers, something fragile and irreplaceable, and she could only hope that, one day, he might return in a way that allowed her to truly hold onto him.

---------★----------★---------★---------★---------

Late afternoon sunlight filtered softly through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room as Arin sat by her bedroom window, one hand resting protectively over her growing belly. She closed her eyes, her heart swelling with each soft flutter and occasional kick from the baby. Nearly six months along, she could feel the unmistakable bond forming between her and the little life inside her—a connection that seemed to strengthen every day, filling her with a love deeper than she’d ever known.

A faint, sad smile crossed her face as she thought about the upcoming milestones. Next month would mark her and Jungkook’s first wedding anniversary, but she’d stopped expecting much from him. She’d come to realize that, for Jungkook, their marriage was more an obligation than anything close to the partnership she had once imagined. Before discovering she was pregnant, she might have felt similarly. But now, her child’s needs came first. She would endure anything to ensure her baby grew up loved, even if it meant facing Jungkook’s indifference alone.

---

Downstairs, Jeon Soojin carefully poured tea into two porcelain cups, glancing toward her husband, Kim Minho, who sat across from her. His usual calm demeanor seemed troubled, his eyes lingering on the newspaper without reading a word. He’d grown increasingly concerned about his son’s coldness toward Arin, and his worry was plain.

“Do you think he remembers that their anniversary is approaching?” Soojin asked quietly, wrapping her hands around her cup as if to steady herself.

Minho sighed, setting the paper aside. “Honestly, Soojin, I don’t know. Jungkook’s always had a single-minded focus on his work, but this…” He shook his head, frustration mingling with disappointment. “This marriage should be a turning point in his life, something to ground him, but instead, he’s kept her at arm’s length. Arin deserves so much better.”

Soojin’s expression softened, a hint of sadness clouding her gaze. “Arin has been nothing but patient and loving. She hasn’t once complained, but I can see the loneliness in her eyes. She’s carrying his child, doing everything she can to make this work, yet he’s blind to it all.”

Minho nodded thoughtfully. “Maybe he just needs a reminder, someone to speak plainly with him.”

She took a deep breath, determination settling over her. “Then I’ll call him. If he won’t see what’s right in front of him, perhaps it’s time for a mother’s nudge.”

---

Soojin dialed Jungkook’s number, listening to the rings as she waited, hoping he wouldn’t ignore the call. Finally, after several rings, she heard him pick up.

“Hello?” Jungkook’s voice was low, a bit rough, as though she’d interrupted something important.

“Jungkook,” she began, her voice filled with warmth but also laced with the subtle authority only a mother possesses. “It’s been too long since we spoke. How have you been?”

There was a slight pause, his response measured. “I’m... fine, Mom. Just... busy with work.”

She noted the hesitation in his tone, the way he spoke almost as though he were distracted. “I understand, but sometimes, life requires us to make time for things outside of work.” She paused briefly. “Speaking of which, there’s something important coming up, isn’t there?”

There was silence on the other end, as though he were grasping for what she meant. “Something... important?” he repeated, his voice uncertain, almost guarded.

Soojin’s heart sank slightly, but she kept her tone gentle. “Yes, Jungkook. Next month is your first wedding anniversary. I hope you haven’t forgotten.”

“Oh,” he murmured, his voice even lower, as if he were suddenly self-conscious. She could hear the faint shuffle of papers, as though he was trying to compose himself. “I... I hadn’t realized it was so soon.”

The hesitant tone in his voice sent a pang of worry through her. There was something off—a faint tremor that felt almost like he was hiding something, or perhaps holding back words he couldn’t bring himself to say.

“Jungkook,” she continued gently, “I know this marriage may not have started out as you envisioned, but Arin is your wife. She’s carrying your child, and she’s waiting for you to be part of this life with her. You may not realize it, but she’s been so understanding, so patient. I only wish you could see how lucky you are.”

There was a long pause before he answered, his voice so low it was nearly a whisper. “I understand, Mom. I’ll… I’ll try.”

Soojin closed her eyes, feeling a quiet ache in her chest. “All I ask is that you make an effort, Jungkook. Even if you can’t be here in person, you can still show her that she matters. A letter, a thoughtful gift—just something to let her know she’s not forgotten.”

He hesitated again, and she could sense the weight of whatever he was hiding pressing down on him. “I’ll think about it, Mom,” he replied softly, almost as though he were speaking to himself rather than her.

Taking a deep breath, Soojin softened her voice even further. “Please remember, Jungkook, that love takes time. But it can’t grow if you keep it locked away. Take care of yourself, and don’t forget the people who are waiting for you here.”

“Thank you, Mom,” he said quietly, and then the line went dead.

---

Meanwhile, Arin was busy tying up her final tasks at work, her hand absently resting over her belly as she went through her files. Tomorrow would be her first day on maternity leave, and although her professional self was satisfied to have left things in good order, a part of her felt the loneliness settling deeper. Taehyung and Miso’s son, So Mun, seeing him she could feel her maternal instincts rising more intensely each time she was around him, which only made Arin’s heart ache with the anticipation of her own child’s arrival. Her instincts, her heart—everything in her was gearing up for motherhood. And although she knew Jungkook’s heart was elsewhere, she promised herself that she would be enough for her child

Her baby’s tiny kicks felt like promises, each movement filling her with a joy and purpose she hadn’t known before. She closed her eyes, taking a deep breath as she imagined holding her own son, her heart swelling with love.

Yet, as much as she cherished these quiet moments with her unborn child, a pang of longing still lingered for the partnership she’d once dreamed of with Jungkook. But she had learned not to let that longing take over. He’d made his choices clear, and all she could do now was be strong for herself and her child.

------★--------★---------★---------★--------★---

Arin’s eyes blinked open, adjusting to the gentle morning light spilling through her bedroom curtains. Today was a significant day—a year since she’d married Jungkook. The memory was bittersweet; so much had changed, and yet in some ways, everything felt the same. She turned her head to the empty side of the bed, running her fingers over the cold sheets. Her heart tightened a little, but she quickly brushed the feeling aside.

Reaching for her phone, she took a deep breath, typing a message she’d hoped she wouldn’t have to send alone:
“Happy Anniversary, Jungkook.”

She hit send and waited, eyes lingering on the screen for a few moments. But the notification remained silent, her message left unread. Her fingers curled around the phone, pressing it close to her chest as she tried to shake off the feeling of disappointment. He’s probably busy, she told herself. Work always kept him occupied.

Pushing herself up, she tied a soft robe around her growing belly and headed downstairs. Today, her family would be visiting, and she wanted to focus on their warmth and support.

When she entered the dining room, she was greeted by her in-laws, Kim Minho and Jeon Soojin, who looked up with gentle smiles.

“Good morning, dear,” Soojin greeted, her voice as warm as ever. She rose from her chair and embraced Arin, her hands rubbing gentle circles over her back. “Happy anniversary,” she whispered, pulling back with a loving smile.

“Thank you, Mother,” Arin replied, her voice soft, holding back the emotion welling up inside her.

Minho nodded from across the table, his gaze warm and approving. “One year already,” he said, a touch of pride in his voice. “Arin, you’ve shown remarkable strength. Even though Jungkook isn’t here, know that we’re grateful to have you as part of this family.”

Arin returned a small smile, touched by their words. “Thank you, Father,” she replied, grateful for the quiet support they offered. Yet, as kind as their words were, it wasn’t quite enough to fill the gap Jungkook’s absence left in her heart.

Miso, Taehyung’s wife, who was feeding their son, chimed in. “Arin, you’ve handled this past year so well. It’s a huge thing, you know—adjusting, dealing with everything. Jungkook is lucky to have you.”

Arin nodded, grateful for Miso’s words, though a subtle sadness lingered in her eyes. “I appreciate that, Miso. I’m… doing my best.”

Taehyung, dressed sharply in a suit, came down ,He leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss to Miso’s forehead and their son because he's leaving for the office. Now that Arin was on maternity leave, Taehyung had resumed his duties, allowing Miso to take on more responsibility at home with their child. Arin watched them, feeling a gentle envy as she witnessed the affectionate way they moved together as a family.  Taehyung  with his usual calm demeanor. “Take care, love,” he said softly to Miso. Then, turning to Arin, he gave her a supportive nod. “Today’s special, Arin. I know Jungkook’s work keeps him busy, but if you need anything, we’re all here for you.”

“Thank you, Taehyung,” Arin replied with a small smile, appreciating his steady presence.

As Taehyung left for the office, Arin settled into the morning with her family, letting their kind words and light conversation fill the silence. But as the hours stretched on, the absence of any message or call from Jungkook gnawed at her, though she tried to push it to the back of her mind.

---

The afternoon sun was high when Arin received word that her parents and Yoongi had arrived. Excitement bubbled in her chest as she made her way downstairs, anticipation overshadowing the day’s earlier melancholy. The moment she saw them, warmth filled her heart. Her mother, Lee Seojin, embraced her tightly, running a gentle hand over Arin’s belly.

“Arin! my beautiful daughter, Happy anniversary, my love. I can’t believe it’s already been a year.”

“Thank you, Mom,” Arin whispered, her heart swelling with love and gratitude. She could feel the genuine joy in her mother’s voice, the pride in her father’s eyes.

Hyunwoo gave her a warm smile as he stepped forward, pulling her into a hug. “We couldn’t be happier for you,
We brought some gifts for you and our grandson,” he said, gesturing to the bags his assistant carried in behind them. “Only the best for my daughter and grandson.”

Yoongi stepped forward last, his familiar, steady presence grounding her. “Happy anniversary, Arin,” he said, giving her shoulder a supportive squeeze. “You deserve happiness… more than anyone I know.”

Arin felt a swell of warmth at her brother’s words, her eyes misting as she gave his hand a grateful squeeze. “Thank you, yoongi.”

As they settled in the living room, Jeon Soojin and Miso joined, filling the air with cheerful conversation. They spoke about baby preparations, the joy of upcoming parenthood, and exchanged tips on handling newborns. Lee Seojin gifted Arin beautiful blankets and baby clothes, each piece carefully chosen for her future grandson.

“Oh, these are beautiful, mother,” Arin murmured, running her fingers over the delicate fabrics. “You thought of everything.”

Her mother smiled, her eyes glistening. “It’s what mothers do, my love. Soon, you’ll know what it feels like to want the very best for your child.”

For a while, laughter filled the room as everyone shared stories and memories, but the atmosphere shifted slightly when Yoongi cleared his throat, his eyes narrowing with a hint of frustration.

“So, where’s Jungkook?” he asked, his tone just a touch sharp. “Today’s an important day for both of you, and Shouldn’t he be here today? It’s his anniversary too.”

The question struck like a lightning bolt, the cheerful mood suddenly faltering. Arin’s heart skipped a beat, her smile stiffening. She opened her mouth to reply, but her voice faltered, though she quickly tried to cover her husband’s absence.

“Ah… he’s very busy with work, yoongi. You know how demanding his job is,” she said, forcing a smile and hoping it sounded convincing. “He would be here if he could.”

But Yoongi’s expression darkened, his jaw tightening as he shook his head. “Work? That’s always the excuse, isn’t it? Every time it’s work. He should be making time for his wife and child, especially on a day like today, On your anniversary, Arin? He should be here for you, for both of you.This isn’t fair to you, Arin.”

“Yoongi ,” Arin said, trying to keep her voice steady, “Jungkook is doing his best. Sometimes… sometimes things are just complicated.”

Yoongi’s eyes flashed with a mixture of anger and protectiveness. “I just don’t want to see you waiting around forever, Arin. He should be putting you and your child first. Not… not whatever else he’s prioritizing.”

Min Hyunwoo, seeing the tension rise, placed a calming hand on Yoongi’s shoulder,silently urging him to keep his emotions in check. “Yoongi, that’s enough. We’re here to support Arin, not make her uncomfortable.”

Turning to Jeon Soojin, he said apologetically, “Forgive Yoongi. He’s just... worried about his sister. It’s hard to see her facing all this alone.”

Soojin, too, spoke gently. “It’s all right, Hyunwoo-ssi. I understand Yoongi’s frustration and his anger. We all want what’s best for Arin. Trust me, Yoongi, you’re not alone in wishing things were different. But I can assure you, we share the same concern. Jungkook has obligations, yes, but… he’ll come around. For now, let’s give them both our support.”

Seojin, visibly calming, bowed slightly to Soojin. “Thank you, Soojin-ssi. I apologize if he spoke out of line. He's just… worried about Arin.”

After a few more exchanges, the mood lifted again, and soon, Arin’s family took their leave, offering her one last round of hugs and words of encouragement.

---

As the day wore on, Arin found herself glancing at her phone more frequently, checking for any sign of Jungkook’s reply. But as each hour passed in silence, hope turned to disappointment. Finally, unable to wait any longer, she decided to call him, her heart racing as she dialed his number.

After several rings, her mind filled with doubts, and she nearly hung up before the call connected. She waited, her breath catching when someone finally answered. But it wasn’t Jungkook’s voice.

“Hello?” The voice on the other end sounded uncertain, almost distracted. “Is anyone there?”

Arin froze, blinking in confusion. Had she dialed the wrong number? She checked the screen, her heart sinking when she saw that it was, indeed, Jungkook’s number. Gathering her composure, she spoke hesitantly, “Yes… I’m calling for Jungkook. Is he there?”

“Oh,” the woman replied, sounding slightly surprised. “Yes, he’s here. Just a moment.”

There was a pause before the woman replied, a hint of surprise in her tone. “Oh… yes. He’s here. Just a moment.”

Arin heard muffled voices in the background, her mind reeling as she waited. Her heart pounded, unease creeping in as she wondered who this woman was and why she was answering Jungkook’s phone.

Finally, Jungkook’s voice came on the line, low and almost hesitant. “Arin?”

Relief and a touch of confusion mingled in her tone as she replied, “Yes, it’s me, Jungkook. I… I called to wish you a happy anniversary.”

There was a long pause, his response slow and slightly awkward. “Oh. Right. Happy anniversary, Arin.” His voice was almost a whisper, as though he were speaking from someplace he didn’t want her to know about.

Ignoring the strange feeling that lingered, Arin pressed on, softening her tone. “Thank you… And, um, how have you been? How’s work?”

He cleared his throat, sounding slightly flustered. “It’s... been busy. I’m… I’m sorry I didn’t call. Things have just been... hectic.”

She could sense his discomfort, but she held onto the small connection they shared, even if it was through a phone. “I understand. I just thought I’d tell you how the baby is doing. He’s… he’s been moving a lot lately. Actually, he kicked so hard the other night, I thought he’d just come right out. It’s amazing to feel him.”

A silence settled between them, and she could almost feel the distance stretching like a chasm through the phone. She wanted to believe him, to let her insecurities drift away, but the image of the woman’s voice answering his phone lingered in her mind. She tried to brush it off, knowing that if she let her doubts show, it might strain things further.

Jungkook chuckled, but there was a nervousness behind it, a hesitancy she couldn’t ignore. “Sounds like he’s already got some energy,” he murmured. “Just like his mom.”

Jungkook spoke again, his tone softer. “That’s... that’s good to hear. I’m glad you and the baby are well.”

Her lips twitched in a faint smile, but her heart remained heavy. She wanted to tell him how much she missed him, how lonely it had been, especially on today of all days. But something held her back, a nagging feeling that things were… different. His voice sounded almost hollow, as if he were holding back too, hiding something just beneath the surface.

“Well,” Jungkook said after a pause, clearing his throat as if trying to regain his composure, “It’s... been busy. I’m… I’m sorry I didn’t call. Things have just been... hectic. I’m really sorry I couldn’t be there today, Arin.”

She tried to keep her disappointment from seeping into her voice. “Of course. I know how important your work is, Jungkook. I… I just wanted to wish you.”

Arin felt a spark of hope, but before she could say more, he cleared his throat again, his voice growing tense. “I have to go now, Arin. I… I have some things to take care of.”

Her heart sank, but she forced a smile into her voice. “Of course. I just wanted to... check in, Jungkook.”

“Happy anniversary again, Arin,” he repeated, almost as if he were trying to convince himself of something. “And… take care. Get some rest, okay?”

Arin swallowed, forcing a small, gentle smile even though he couldn’t see it. “Good night, Jungkook.”

“Goodnight,” he murmured, and then the line went silent.

As Arin put down her phone, she felt a strange unease settle over her. There was something about his tone, his guarded, almost whispered replies, that left her feeling unsettled. But she brushed it off, convincing herself it was just her overactive mind playing tricks on her.

---

As she slipped into bed that night, Arin’s mind wandered back to the strange, unfamiliar voice that had answered his phone, the distant tone in his voice, the hesitation that had felt so out of place. Her mind spun, trying to make sense of it all, but she quickly brushed it off, reminding herself of his work and how it demanded so much of him. She had known this would be part of her life with him, she reminded herself.

And yet… a whisper of doubt lingered, something too subtle to grasp but strong enough to keep her awake. She turned over, gently cradling her belly, feeling the faint movements of their son, as if he were trying to comfort her.

“It’s just my hormones,” she murmured to herself, trying to steady her heart. “I’m probably just overthinking.”

But as she finally closed her eyes, a quiet suspicion lingered in the back of her mind, a question she couldn’t quite silence: Was there something he wasn’t telling her? She took a deep breath, resolving to focus on the life growing within her, her heart both hopeful and weary as she drifted into a restless sleep.

************************************

Author’s Note

Hey, lovely readers! 👋

Can we just take a moment to appreciate Arin’s patience here? I mean, if I were her, I'd be about three seconds away from sending Jungkook a very strongly worded text, complete with aggressive emojis and maybe even a GIF for dramatic effect! But, alas, our girl is a queen of composure.

Also, big shoutout to Jeon Soojin and the fam for being absolute gems in this chapter! They're doing their best to keep Arin’s spirits up, and let’s face it—without them, this story would be 99% angsty phone calls and 1% confused baby kicks.

And Jungkook, my dear boy... what are you hiding, hmm? We see you, being all cryptic and mysterious. I swear, this man’s life is like one of those puzzles that looks easy until you realize you’ve been staring at the pieces upside down. 😂

But hold tight! More drama, emotions, and baby kicks are on the way. And as always, thank you for reading, for cheering for these characters, and for enduring my cliffhangers! 💖

See you in the next chapter, and may your next call not be picked up by a stranger with questionable intentions! 😅