The soft golden light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the quiet room. The world outside was slowly waking up, but inside the bedroom, everything was still-until

A sudden weight landed on Jungkook's stomach, forcing the air out of his lungs with a startled grunt. He groaned, A loud oof escaped his lips as tiny hands patted his cheeks repeatedly. Cracking his eyes open to see a giggling Jungsoo straddling his torso, bouncing up and down like he was riding a horse.

"Appa, wake up!" Jungsoo's bright voice filled the room.

Jungkook blinked against the soft morning light streaming through the curtains, still groggy from sleep. He stretched one arm out lazily, rubbing his face with a tired groan.

"Jungsoo-yah, why are you attacking me this early?" he mumbled, voice hoarse from sleep.

Jungsoo pouted, crossing his arms. "Because you slept here!" He looked around his own bed before placing his small hands on his hips, tilting his head dramatically. "Why did you sleep in my room, Appa?"

Jungkook yawned, then grinned mischievously, deciding to match his son's playful tone. "Well... I got scared in the middle of the night." He widened his eyes, feigning innocence. "So I needed to hug someone, and I thought-who is the bravest person I know?" He paused for dramatic effect before poking Jungsoo's belly. "Of course, it's my Jungsoo!"

Jungsoo's eyes widened in shock. "Huh? You got scared, Appa?" He tilted his head, blinking rapidly.

Jungkook nodded solemnly, playing along. "Mhm. I needed to hug someone really brave, so I came to you." His voice held a dramatic softness, his dark eyes twinkling as he watched Jungsoo's reaction.

For a moment, Jungsoo simply stared at him, his small mouth forming an O shape-before suddenly bursting into laughter. He clutched his belly, shaking his head as he laughed uncontrollably. Wiggling under his father's touch. "Appa, you're so dumb!" His little shoulders shaking as if Jungkook had just told the funniest joke in the world.

Jungkook gasped, placing a hand over his heart in mock offense. "Yah! Why am I dumb?"He pouted exaggeratedly, reaching up to ruffle Jungsoo's messy bed hair.

Jungsoo, still giggling, shook his head. "Because if you were scared, you should've hugged Eomma! Why did you come to me?" He tilted his head, clearly amused by his father's so-called 'childish' behavior.

Jungkook pursed his lips, pretending to think. "Hmm... but I thought you were the bravest in our house?"

Jungsoo grinned proudly. "I am!"

"See?" Jungkook smirked. "That's why I came to you. My brave Jungsoo would protect me, right?"

Jungsoo shook his head dramatically, his tiny hands flying up in the air. "Appa, Appa, listen-Eomma is more brave than me! When I used to get scared, I hugged her, and she made everything okay." He puffed his chest. "But now, I'm a big boy! I don't get scared anymore. I can handle myself. But Appa-you're an adult! Why are you scared?" He covered his mouth as another wave of laughter took over."

Jungkook watched as Jungsoo continued giggling, his tiny shoulders shaking with amusement. The little boy lay sprawled on the bed, legs kicking in the air as he repeated his earlier statement.

Jungkook just stared at his son for a moment, stunned by his words.

Jungsoo's innocence was something so pure, so untouched by the complexities of adult emotions. He spoke as if it was the simplest thing in the world-when you're scared, you go to someone strong. And for him, that was his mother.

Jungkook swallowed the lump in his throat. His fingers absentmindedly brushed through Jungsoo's soft hair as he forced himself to respond.

A soft smile tugged at Jungkook's lips despite the bittersweet emotions swirling inside him.

"You're right, buddy," he murmured softly. "Your Eomma is really brave... and strong."

Even though he responded to his son, his mind drifted elsewhere. He thought about her-the woman he had once resented, the woman who had endured so much, yet still stood strong. He thought about the moments he had ignored, the truths he had refused to see.

Arin is strong. Maybe stronger than him in some ways. She had endured so much, yet she always held herself together for Jungsoo. And now, hearing their son say it so naturally made Jungkook realize just how much Jungsoo admired his mother.

He swallowed the lump forming in his throat.

"Appa?" Jungsoo called, his voice filled with playful suspicion.

Jungkook snapped out of his thoughts just in time to see his son grinning mischievously.

Before he could react, Jungsoo's tiny fingers wiggled against his sides, tickling him mercilessly.

"Yah!" Jungkook yelped, jolting as he squirmed under the sudden attack. "Jungsoo-stop! That tickles!"

Jungsoo only laughed harder, his small hands attacking his father's ribs.

Jungkook gasped dramatically. "So this is how my brave Jungsoo treats his Appa? Attacking me when I'm weak?"

Jungsoo giggled. "Yes! Because you're dumb!"

Jungkook's mouth fell open in mock shock. "You dare call your Appa dumb?"

Jungsoo nodded cheekily, still giggling. "Yes! Dumb Appa!"

"Oh, you asked for it!" Jungkook smirked before launching a counterattack, his fingers quickly finding Jungsoo's ticklish spots.

Jungsoo shrieked in laughter, kicking his legs wildly as he tried to escape. "Appa-no! Noooooo! Stop!"

Jungkook only chuckled, continuing his assault. "Say, 'Appa is the best!' and I'll stop."

Jungsoo giggled breathlessly, wriggling in his father's arms. "Never!"

"Then I won't stop!"

He barely had time to react before a full-blown tickle war erupted between them. Jungsoo laughed uncontrollably, his giggles filling the entire room as he squirmed under Jungkook's counterattack.

"Nooo! Appa, stop!" Jungsoo shrieked between breathless laughs, trying to escape.

Jungkook smirked. "Oh? But I thought you were a big boy! How come you can't handle a little tickling?" He teased, pinning Jungsoo gently as his fingers danced against his small sides.

Jungsoo flailed, his legs kicking as he tried to retaliate. "I-I am a big boy! B-But not for tickles!" He wheezed with laughter, his tiny fists weakly hitting Jungkook's chest.

Jungkook chuckled, finally stopping his attack. He collapsed back onto the mattress, breathing heavily as he watched Jungsoo catch his breath.

Jungsoo grinned, his cheeks flushed from laughing too much. "Appa, you're the best."

Jungkook's heart softened instantly.

He reached out, pulling Jungsoo into his arms, pressing a soft kiss onto his forehead. "And you're the best thing that ever happened to me, Jungsoo-yah."

Jungsoo yawned, snuggling into his chest with a content sigh. "Love you, Appa..."

Jungkook smiled, his fingers gently running through his son's hair.

"I love you more, buddy."

More laughter filled the room as the tickle battle continued, both father and son lost in their playful moment.

For the first time in a long while, Jungkook felt truly lighthearted. Even if just for a moment.

And for the first time in a long while, he let himself bask in the warmth of the moment, allowing the laughter of his son to temporarily quiet the storm inside his heart.

The room was filled with nothing but laughter-pure, genuine laughter that echoed off the walls like a forgotten melody. Jungsoo was shrieking with delight as Jungkook mercilessly tickled him, his small body twisting and turning in an attempt to escape. The air felt light, almost as if there were no worries-no regrets, no past mistakes, just the present.

And then, the door creaked open.

Arin gently pushed open the door to Jungsoo's room, expecting to find him still asleep or just waking up. Instead, what she saw made her freeze in place.

The room was filled with the sound of uncontrollable laughter.

Jungkook and Jungsoo lay tangled in the blankets, both of them breathless from their tickle fight. Jungsoo's giggles echoed loudly, his little body thrashing around as he tried to escape Jungkook's playful fingers. But what truly caught Arin off guard was Jungkook's laughter-rich, full, and carefree. It was the same as Jungsoo's, almost identical, like a perfect reflection.

For a moment, she just stood there, watching them.

It was a rare sight.

It was a beautiful sight-a father and son sharing a moment of pure joy.

But the bitter memories of last night lingered in her heart, making her grip tighten on the door handle. She should still be angry. She should still feel the weight of last night pressing on her heart, the sting of all the pain he had caused her. But in that moment, watching the father and son bathed in morning light, she couldn't bring herself to hold on to the bitterness. She wanted to hold on to this warmth, to let it soften the resentment she still carried, but the conflict inside her wouldn't disappear so easily.

Still, she shook off the heavy feeling and cleared her throat with a soft cough.

The reaction was instant.

Jungkook froze mid-tickle, his hands still hovering over Jungsoo's tiny frame. Jungsoo, noticing his father's sudden stillness, blinked in confusion before following Jungkook's gaze toward the door.

Arin stood with an unreadable expression, her hands curled slightly at her sides as if bracing herself for something.

Jungkook swallowed hard. An awkward silence filled the air, the ghost of their previous laughter still lingering.

As soon as Jungsoo saw Arin standing there, his face lit up like the morning sun.

"Eomma!" he squealed happily, He scrambled off the bed and rushed toward her, He threw himself into her arms, wrapping his tiny arms around her waist. Arin instinctively caught him, feeling his warmth seep into her. His scent a mix of baby shampoo and innocence.

"Good morning, Eomma!" Jungsoo chirped excitedly before planting a wet kiss on her cheek.

A soft smile formed on Arin's lips as she kissed his chubby cheeks in return. "Good morning, baby."

Jungkook, who had been sitting on the bed, now felt a little awkward. He rubbed the back of his neck, his earlier laughter fading into quiet hesitation. His eyes met Arin's for the briefest second before she turned her attention back to Jungsoo.

She was avoiding his gaze.

And Jungkook didn't blame her.

Jungsoo, still snuggled in Arin's arms, suddenly tilted his head, his curious eyes shifting between his parents. He blinked once, then twice, his tiny brows furrowing as if something was bothering him.

"Eomma," he called out, his pout forming as he glanced up at her.

"Yes, baby?" Arin responded, running her fingers through his soft hair.

Jungsoo pulled away slightly and turned to face Jungkook, then back to Arin. "Why didn't you and Appa say good morning to each other?"

At his innocent question, both Arin and Jungkook immediately stiffened. Their eyes met for a brief second before they both quickly looked away, their awkwardness evident.

Jungkook cleared his throat. "Uh... well-"

"I-I was just about to," Arin quickly interrupted, forcing a small smile.

Jungsoo's pout deepened as he crossed his arms. "Lies! You only said it to me!"

Jungkook let out a nervous chuckle. "Okay, okay, fine. Um..." He hesitantly turned to Arin. "Good morning... Arin."

Arin's posture stiffened slightly, but she forced herself to nod. "Good morning, Jungkook."

Jungsoo's lips curled into a satisfied smile, but then, his eyes sparkled with mischief. Jungsoo narrowed his eyes. Something still wasn't right.

He clapped his hands together. "Appa, you forgot something!"

Jungkook raised an eyebrow. "I did?"

Jungsoo nodded enthusiastically."Now Appa, you need to kiss Eomma too!"

Both Arin and Jungkook froze at the same time.

"What?" Arin asked, blinking rapidly.

"Yeah!" Jungsoo chirped excitedly, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. "Eomma always kisses me in the morning, and Appa gives me kisses too! But you both didn't do it to each other! Families do that, right?"

Jungkook felt his ears heat up, while Arin's heart started to race.

"Jungsoo," Arin started, trying to reason with him, "that's different. Appa and I-"

"Nooo, it's not different!" Jungsoo whined, shaking his head. "Eomma kisses me, and Appa kisses me! But if you both love me, then you have to love each other too! That's what families do!"

Jungkook let out a deep breath, rubbing his temples. "Jungsoo, buddy, it's not that simple-"

"But why not?" Jungsoo interrupted, his little face scrunching in confusion. "Eomma always says that we should show love to our family!"

Arin bit her lip, trying to find a way to escape this situation, but Jungsoo wasn't letting go.

"Come on, Appa! Just kiss Eomma on the cheek! It's not hard! You do it to me all the time!" He grabbed Jungkook's wrist and Arin's as well, pulling them closer.

Arin gulped, her hands growing clammy. "Jungsoo-"

Jungkook stared at Jungsoo, dumbfounded. His little boy was practically bouncing in place, his wide eyes full of excitement, eagerly waiting for him to comply.

"Jungsoo..." Arin started, trying one last time to change the subject. "Sweetheart, don't you want to eat breakfast first? You'll be late for kindergarten-"

"Nooo!" Jungsoo whined, stomping his tiny foot on the floor. "Not until Appa kisses Eomma! Families do that!"

Arin sucked in a sharp breath and turned to Jungkook, expecting him to brush it off or make an excuse.

But to her utter shock, Jungkook sighed and gave a small, defeated chuckle before nodding.

"Fine," he muttered.

Arin's eyes widened. Did he just... agree?

Jungsoo gasped, his little hands clapping together in excitement. "Yay!" He quickly grabbed Arin's wrist and pulled her closer to Jungkook, standing between them like a tiny matchmaker.

"Come on, Appa! Do it!" Jungsoo chirped happily.

Jungkook swallowed hard. His heartbeat picked up as his gaze met Arin's, who looked just as stunned as he felt.

His mind screamed at him to stop. What are you doing, Jungkook? This wasn't part of the plan.

But the way Jungsoo beamed up at him... the pure innocence in his son's eyes made it impossible for him to back out.

Slowly, hesitantly, Jungkook lifted his hand, placing it gently on Arin's arm. The warmth of her skin sent an unexpected shiver through him.

Arin stiffened, her breath hitching in her throat.

As if sensing her nervousness, Jungkook hesitated. Should I really do this?

Jungsoo huffed impatiently. "Appa, hurry! Eomma is waiting!"

Jungkook inhaled deeply and leaned in.

Arin, overwhelmed by the moment, instinctively shut her eyes tightly. Her fingers curled into fists at her sides as she felt his breath ghost against her cheek.

And then...

A soft, warm sensation pressed against her skin.

Arin gulped, her hands instinctively curling into fists at her sides. Her stomach twisted, a strange feeling washing over her.

Her heart skipped a beat.

Jungkook's lips lingered for just a second, and Arin could feel herself trembling slightly. She gulped, trying to steady her rapid heartbeat.

But before she could even process the first kiss, another peck landed gently on her cheek.

Jungkook was about to pull away, but something inside him stopped him.

Jungkook stilled, his own heart pounding. He had meant for it to be quick, just a simple gesture to satisfy their son's demand.

But now?

Now, all he could focus on was the warmth of her skin, the scent of her hair, the way her body tensed under his touch.

For some reason, it didn't feel enough.

Before he could second-guess himself, he leaned in again, pressing another feather-light peck onto the same spot. This time, lingering just a second longer.

Arin's breath caught in her throat.

Her eyes snapped open in shock, A blush crept up her neck, but she quickly forced herself to act normal, hiding her flushed face behind a composed expression. She kept her face turned away, afraid to let either of them see the warmth creeping up her neck.

Jungkook slowly pulled away after the second kiss, his lips curling into a small, barely-there smile. His heart was still hammering in his chest, but he forced himself to act normal, even though he could still feel the lingering warmth of Arin's skin against his lips.

He didn't expect to feel... this.

The first kiss had been hesitant, almost forced. But the second?

That one had been his choice.

Arin, on the other hand, was desperately trying to keep her composure. Her fingers twitched at her sides, and she could feel the heat creeping up her cheeks. Damn it, why was she blushing?

Jungsoo, completely oblivious to the thick tension between his parents, clapped his hands excitedly. "That was so cute!"

Jungkook chuckled softly, ruffling Jungsoo's hair. "You're happy now, huh?"

Jungsoo nodded eagerly. "Very!"

Arin cleared her throat, willing her heart to stop racing. Shaking her head before clearing her throat. "Uh... it's getting late. Jungsoo, you need to wash up and get ready for kindergarten," she said, her voice slightly strained.

Jungkook immediately turned to Jungsoo, grateful for the distraction. "She's right, buddy. We don't want you to be late," he said, ruffling Jungsoo's already messy hair.

Jungsoo groaned. "But I wanna play more!" He pouted, crossing his tiny arms.

Jungkook chuckled, easily lifting his son into his arms. "Nope, no more playing. It's bath time now," he announced, making Jungsoo squeal in protest.

Arin exhaled softly, still feeling the tension between her and Jungkook. She tried not to look at him, but she could feel his presence-he was standing too close, and after what just happened, her heart refused to settle.

Something softer.

Something unspoken.

Arin, feeling her heart race again, her cheeks are still flushed. She needed a moment to breathe.

Jungkook turn to Arin. "I'll wash him up and get him ready." His voice was casual, but there was something different in the way he looked at her.

Though an undeniable awkwardness lingered in the air, Jungkook couldn't ignore the lightness in his chest.

Arin gave a quick nod. "I'll prepare breakfast." she said quickly, moving toward the door.

Before Jungsoo could protest more, Jungkook scooped him up into his arms effortlessly.

"Appa, I can walk!" Jungsoo giggled, but he didn't seem to mind being carried.

Jungkook smirked. "Nope, today I'm carrying you. Let's go, little man."

Arin turned away quickly, heading toward the kitchen, while Jungkook, still holding Jungsoo, watched her retreating figure for a second longer before turning his attention back to his son.

"Alright, let's get you cleaned up," he said, carrying Jungsoo toward the bathroom.

As he walked, he couldn't help but notice the way his chest felt a little lighter.

There was still awkwardness, still an unspoken tension between him and Arin.

But for the first time...

Jungkook felt this type of feelings.

Jungkook stood in the bathroom, rolling up his sleeves as he kneeled beside the bathtub .He hummed softly as he poured warm water over Jungsoo's tiny head, watching the bubbles form on his son's hair. He couldn't stop the smile that kept tugging at his lips, no matter how hard he tried. His mind kept replaying the soft touch of Arin's skin against his lips, the way she had closed her eyes so tightly, the way her cheeks had turned pink afterward.

He felt... giddy.

Like a teenager experiencing his first crush.

"Appa, why are you smiling like that?" Jungsoo suddenly asked, tilting his head up and blinking at Jungkook with wide, curious eyes.

Jungkook snapped out of his thoughts, his smile faltering for a split second before he forced himself to act normal. "Huh? What do you mean?" he asked, rubbing shampoo into Jungsoo's hair.

Jungsoo giggled, splashing water with his tiny hands. "You keep smiling like you saw something funny."

Jungkook blinked, snapping out of his daze. "Huh? Am I?"

Jungsoo nodded furiously. "Yes! You look funny." He pouted dramatically. "Are you laughing at me?"

Jungkook chuckled, shaking his head pretending to be clueless. "No way, buddy. Maybe I just like bathing you. It's fun," he said playfully, flicking a few bubbles toward Jungsoo's nose.

Jungsoo wrinkled his nose and wiped the bubbles away. "Pffft! That's silly. Bathing is boring, Appa."

Jungkook smirked. "That's because you don't know how to enjoy it." He scooped up more bubbles and placed them on Jungsoo's head like a hat. "There, now you're a bubble prince."

Jungsoo burst into laughter, clapping his hands. "I'm a bubble prince! Eomma should see this!"

At the mention of Arin, Jungkook's thoughts wandered again. The way she had looked at him before quickly turning away... was she flustered too? Or was she just uncomfortable?

Shaking his head, he focused on rinsing Jungsoo's hair.

Once Jungsoo was all clean and dressed, they made their way to the dining area, When they entered the kitchen, the smell of freshly made breakfast filled the air. Arin stood by the stove, carefully plating food, her hair tucked behind her ear as she focused on the task in front of her.

Jungkook's gaze softened.

He had seen her like this a thousand times before-calm, composed, effortlessly beautiful. But for some reason, today, everything about her seemed different.

Or maybe it was him who was different.

But Arin...

She wasn't meeting his eyes.

Not even once.

She stayed focused on her food, speaking only when necessary. Even when she did, her tone was neutral, unreadable.

Jungkook exhaled through his nose. He knew why.

She was still processing everything.

He wanted to say something-to acknowledge the moment they had earlier. But what would he even say?

"Hey, I kissed you, and now I can't stop thinking about it"?

Yeah. No.

As they settled at the table, Jungkook found himself sneaking glances at her again , watching the way her fingers moved, the way she tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

He sat Jungsoo down and took his seat across from Arin. As he started eating, he found himself stealing glances at her, unable to help it.

She wasn't looking at him.

Not even once.

She was focused on Jungsoo, cutting up his food into smaller pieces and making sure he ate properly.

Jungkook chewed his food absentmindedly, his gaze lingering on her.

Was she embarrassed about the kiss?

Was she mad?

Did she feel anything at all?

He wanted to ask.

But he didn't.

Instead, he silently watched her, hoping-just maybe-she'd look at him, even if just for a second.

After breakfast, Jungkook helped Jungsoo put on his tiny backpack, adjusting the straps properly.

"Ready to go, champ?" Jungkook asked with a soft smile.

Jungsoo nodded enthusiastically, slipping his small hand into Jungkook's. "Yep! Let's go, Appa!"

Jungkook turned to Arin, who was clearing the dishes.

Jungkook lingered for a moment, wanting to say something, but instead, he sighed and led Jungsoo toward the door. "See you later, Eomma!" Jungsoo chirped, waving.

Arin forced a small smile. "See you, baby. Have fun at kindergarten."

Jungkook and Jungsoo stepped outside, and as Jungkook drove toward the kindergarten, The entire ride there, he felt lighter than he had in a long time. He found himself humming along to the songs on the radio, even smiling at the sight of Jungsoo swinging his little legs in excitement. He felt a warmth in his chest.

As they pulled up in front of the kindergarten, Jungkook unbuckled Jungsoo's seatbelt and helped him out of the car. "Be good, okay? Listen to your teacher," he said, crouching down to adjust Jungsoo's backpack one last time.

"I always do, Appa!" Jungsoo pouted, crossing his arms.

Jungkook chuckled and ruffled his hair. "That's my boy."

Jungsoo suddenly tilted his head, observing Jungkook. "Appa... you look happy today," he said curiously.

Jungkook blinked in surprise. "Huh? Do I?"

Jungsoo nodded eagerly. "Yep! Like you have a secret!"

Jungkook let out a small laugh. "Maybe I do."

Jungsoo gasped dramatically. "Tell me!"

Jungkook tapped his son's nose playfully. "Maybe when you come back from kindergarten."

Jungsoo pouted but then smiled. "Okay! Bye, Appa!"

When he finally dropped Jungsoo off, something inside him solidified.

He had made mistakes. Countless ones.

But from this moment on, he was going to fix them.

No matter what it took.

Jungkook watched as Jungsoo ran inside, his tiny figure disappearing through the doors. With a deep breath, he got back into his car, gripping the steering wheel. His heart felt lighter, a strange sense of happiness bubbling inside him.

For the first time in a long time, he felt hopeful.

Hopeful that maybe... just maybe... he could fix things.

That maybe he could prove to Arin that he wasn't the same man who had made those mistakes.

That maybe... he could finally become the husband and father they both deserved.

With newfound determination, he drove toward his workplace, a small smile playing on his lips.

---

But on the other side of town, Arin wasn't feeling the same confidence.

Arin sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the floor.

Her hands clenched into fists as her mind raced.

Why did Jungkook seem different today?

Why was he looking at her like that?

Why did his kiss linger in her thoughts longer than it should?

She pressed her palms against her cheeks, willing away the warmth that still lingered.

You can't be swayed that easily, Arin.

But then... Jungsoo's laughter from this morning echoed in her mind.

He had looked so happy.

Jungkook had looked happy.

And for the first time in years, their home had felt like a real family.

Her heart twisted painfully.

She wanted to trust him.

For Jungsoo's sake.

But her past wounds still bled beneath the surface, and after last night's painful memories resurfacing, she was terrified.

Terrified of being let down.

Terrified of hoping for something that might never come true.

With a shaky breath, she stood up to get ready for work, her mind a tangled mess of emotions.

Because no matter how much she wanted to take a step forward...

Her past still held her back.

🅂🄷🄰🅃🅃🄴🅁🄴🄳 🅅🄾🅆🅂

Arin stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the collar of her blouse, but her mind was far from her reflection.

Her fingers trembled slightly as she buttoned the last clasp, her thoughts still tangled from the morning.

What am I doing?

She closed her eyes briefly, inhaling deeply.

Jungsoo had been so happy today. His laughter, his bright eyes, his excitement-it was all because of Jungkook.

Because of what happened.

Because he kissed me.

Her throat tightened at the thought.

It had been so sudden. So unexpected.

And the worst part?

She had felt something.

A warmth she hadn't felt in so long. A flutter in her chest, a shiver down her spine.

She had buried those feelings long ago, convinced herself that it was better this way. That keeping her distance from Jungkook, from the pain of their broken relationship, was the only way to protect herself.

But now...

Now, she wasn't sure anymore.

She wanted to trust him. She wanted to believe that maybe, just maybe, things could change.

But how could she?

After everything?

After the arguments, the distance, the cold silence that had settled between them for so long?

Could she really let herself believe that one morning, one fleeting kiss, could undo the past?

Her eyes burned with unshed tears.

She wasn't just afraid of being hurt.

She was afraid of hoping.

Because hope meant expectations. And expectations meant disappointment.

She had spent so long convincing herself that she was okay, that she had accepted things as they were.

But Jungkook's touch today had shattered that illusion.

Arin exhaled shakily, pressing her fingers against her lips as if she could still feel the lingering warmth of his.

She wanted to push it away.

But she couldn't.

And that terrified her.

-

As she grabbed her bag and walked out the door, she tried to clear her mind.

She had a job to focus on. A life outside of her complicated marriage.

But no matter how much she tried, one thought wouldn't leave her mind.

What if Jungkook was changing?

And what if, deep down, she wanted to believe it?

🅂🄷🄰🅃🅃🄴🅁🄴🄳 🅅🄾🅆🅂

Jungkook leaned back in his chair, exhaling deeply as he ran a hand through his hair. The usual buzz of the office surrounded him-phones ringing, people chattering, keyboards clacking-but his mind was elsewhere.

He should be focused on work. Reports, cases, suspects-things that normally occupied his thoughts from the moment he stepped into the station.

But today?

All he could think about was her.

ONLY HER

His fingers absentmindedly traced his lips, the ghost of the morning's kiss still lingering. It had been brief, hesitant-but something about it had sent a rush of warmth through his chest, a feeling he hadn't allowed himself to experience in a long time.

It had awakened something in him.

Something he didn't even realize he had buried.

For so long, things between him and Arin had been cold, distant. A marriage that existed more in name than in reality. He had convinced himself it didn't matter, that this was just how things were supposed to be between them.

But seeing her today, the way her cheeks had flushed under his touch, the way her lips had parted in surprise, the way she had closed her eyes so tightly, as if bracing for something bigger-

It made him feel.

And that scared him.

Because if he admitted how much he wanted things to change, then he had to admit how much he had ruined things in the first place.

Jungkook sighed, rubbing his temples.

I messed up.

He knew it. He had known it for a long time. But for the first time in a while, he wanted to do something about it.

Not just for Jungsoo.

But for her.

For them.

A small, determined smile tugged at his lips.

He didn't know how long it would take.

He didn't know if she'd ever forgive him, or if he even deserved to be forgiven.

But he was going to try.

Because for the first time in a long time, he wanted to fight for his family.

🅂🄷🄰🅃🅃🄴🅁🄴🄳 🅅🄾🅆🅂

Later that day, Jungkook sat at his desk, fingers idly tapping against the surface, his mind far from the mountain of case files in front of him. His workplace, usually a space where he could drown himself in work and detach from everything personal, felt different today.

No matter how much he tried to concentrate, his thoughts kept circling back to one person-Arin.

The way she had flushed under his lips this morning. The way she had carefully avoided his gaze at breakfast. The way her voice had softened ever so slightly when she spoke to Jungsoo but remained distant when she spoke to him.

A deep sigh left his lips as he leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his dark locks.

"When did this happen?" he muttered under his breath.

"When did she start affecting me like this?"

It wasn't just today. If he really thought about it, it had been happening for a while.

At first, he thought it was guilt. The gnawing weight of his past mistakes, the way he had hurt her, the way he had let their marriage become something hollow when it could have been so much more. He thought maybe this feeling was just regret, the need to make things right for Jungsoo's sake.

But today... today, something shifted.

The moment his lips touched her cheek-he had felt it. That strange, unfamiliar warmth spreading through his chest. The way his heart had thudded just a little faster. The way her skin had felt impossibly soft under his lips.

And the way he had wanted to do it again.

Not because of Jungsoo. Not because of obligation.

But because he wanted to.

The realization hit him like a slow-burning fire, creeping through his veins, warming him, terrifying him.

He was falling for her.

Or had he already fallen?

Jungkook exhaled sharply, shaking his head. No. This can't be happening.

He was Jeon Jungkook-a man who never let emotions cloud his judgment. A man who had once believed love is not for him. A man who had thought this marriage was nothing but a responsibility.

And yet, here he was, feeling everything he swore he wouldn't.

The way she avoided his gaze at breakfast, her face still slightly pink from his touch. The way her voice softened when she spoke to Jungsoo but held restraint when she addressed him. The way her presence filled the house, making it feel less like a cold, empty space and more like a home.

A home.

Something clenched in his chest. When did I start seeing her as home?

His fingers curled into a fist, his heartbeat slightly erratic. It didn't make sense. This wasn't supposed to happen. He wasn't supposed to-

A knock on the door broke him out of his spiraling thoughts.

"Jungkook, you good?"

Jungkook looked up to see Eunwoo, his colleague, leaning against the doorframe with a curious expression.

"Yeah," Jungkook cleared his throat, straightening up. "What's up?"

Eunwoo stepped inside, dropping a file onto Jungkook's desk. "You tell me. You've been zoning out all day. Something on your mind?"

Jungkook scoffed, trying to brush it off. "Just tired."

Eunwoo narrowed his eyes, not buying it. "Right. And that tiredness has nothing to do with the fact that you've been sitting here staring at your screen without actually doing anything?"

Jungkook sighed, rubbing his temple. "It's complicated."

Eunwoo sat down across from him, crossing his arms. "Try me."

Jungkook hesitated. He had never been one to talk about his emotions, especially not something as complicated as this. But maybe... maybe saying it out loud would help him make sense of it.

"...I think I like her." His voice was quiet, almost as if he was afraid to admit it even to himself.

Eunwoo blinked. "Like who?"

Jungkook clenched his jaw before finally saying it.

"Arin."

Silence.

And then-

A slow smirk spread across Eunwoo's lips. "Well, damn. It took you this long to figure that out?"

Jungkook frowned. "What do you mean?"

Eunwoo chuckled, leaning back in his chair. "Oh, come on, You think no one notices? The way you get all tense when her name comes up? How you pretend to be unaffected, but your eyes say something else? I mean, even right now, you look like you're having some deep existential crisis because of her. The way you get weirdly defensive whenever someone talks about her-it was obvious you had feelings for her. You're just too stubborn to admit it."

Jungkook remained silent, processing his words.

Had it really been that obvious? Had he been feeling this way for longer than he realized?

Eunwoo leaned forward, resting his arms on the desk. "Jungkook, let me ask you something. Why do you think about her so much?"

Jungkook opened his mouth to reply, but no words came out. Why do I think about her so much?

Because she was his wife? Because they had a son together? Because he wanted to make things right?

No.

It was more than that.

Eunwoo smirked as if reading his mind. "Yeah, that's what I thought."

Jungkook exhaled sharply, dropping his head back. His chest felt tight, like he had been holding something in for too long, and now it was breaking free.

" I like her," he finally admitted, voice barely above a whisper.

Eunwoo nodded, completely unsurprised. "And how long have you been lying to yourself about it?"

Jungkook clenched his jaw. "I don't know when it happened. I don't know how. But I know one thing."

He looked up, his eyes clear, determined.

"I'm not running away from it anymore."

Eunwoo studied him for a moment before grinning. "Good. Because if you didn't realize it soon, I was gonna smack some sense into you."

Eunwoo continued, "But, The real question is-what are you gonna do about it?"

Jungkook's fingers curled into fists. That was the problem, wasn't it? He had spent years building a wall between himself and Arin, pushing her away even when she tried to reach him. He had convinced himself that their marriage was nothing more than an arrangement, something he had to endure.

And yet, here he was, wanting her.

Wanting to see her smile at him the way she smiled at Jungsoo.

Wanting to hear his name leave her lips with warmth instead of indifference.

Wanting to hold her, not because he had to-but because he craved it.

Jungkook exhaled, looking out the window. "I don't know," he admitted. "I don't even know if she could ever forgive me for the past."

Eunwoo's smirk softened into something more understanding. "Jungkook, if you really like her-if you really want to make this work-then stop holding back. Do something about it. Prove to her that you've changed. Show her that you're not the same man who hurt her before."

Jungkook swallowed, his mind racing.

Could he do that?

Could he really make her believe in him again?

Could he make her see that he was falling for her-that maybe, deep down, he had always been meant to like her?

There was only one way to find out.

Taking a deep breath, he nodded. "Yeah. You're right."

Eunwoo grinned. "Of course I am. Now, stop overthinking and go make your wife fall for you, bro."

Jungkook chuckled, shaking his head. But as he turned back to his desk, a newfound determination settled in his chest.

He didn't know how long it would take.

He didn't know if Arin would ever look at him the way he now looked at her.

But one thing was certain-

He wasn't going to let this slip through his fingers.

Not this time.

___________

Jungkook sat in his car on his way back to his home, gripping the steering wheel as the weight of his thoughts pressed down on him. The engine hummed softly, the city lights flickering through the windshield, but he barely noticed. His mind was elsewhere again.

On her.

He let out a slow breath, his fingers tightening around the leather of the wheel.

I like her.

The words echoed in his mind, growing louder, more certain with every beat of his heart.

He had spent years convincing himself that this marriage meant nothing beyond obligation. He had buried every moment, every fleeting warmth, under layers of denial. But tonight, sitting here, he could no longer pretend.

He wasn't just drawn to her because of Jungsoo.

He wasn't just trying to make things right out of guilt.

It was her.

Her stubbornness. Her strength. The way she carried the weight of the world without breaking. The way she looked at Jungsoo like he was her entire universe.

The way she had slowly, without him realizing, become his.

Jungkook exhaled sharply, leaning back against the headrest. When did it happen? When did she slip past my walls?

Maybe it didn't matter.

Because now, he was sure.

His fingers hovered over his phone, a sudden urge rising in his chest. To hear her voice. To see her face. To-

He shook his head, forcing himself to stop.

Not yet.

Not until he was ready to prove it.

As the realization settled deep into his bones, a small, almost incredulous smile tugged at his lips.

I like Min Arin.

MY WIFE.

And for the first time in a long time, Jungkook felt alive.

Hey, lovely readers! ✨

Author's Note

Hey, lovely readers! ✨

Wow, what a moment for Jungkook, right? After all this time, he's finally realizing his feelings for Arin! But the real question is-what happens next? Will he act on his feelings? Will Arin let him in, or will her fears push him away? And how will this change their already complicated relationship?

This is just the beginning of his emotional turmoil, and trust me, things are going to get even more intense from here! So get ready for more slow-burn, angst, and heart-fluttering moments as their journey continues.

I'd love to hear your thoughts-how do you feel about Jungkook's realization? Do you think Arin will ever trust him completely? Let's chat in the comments!

Thank you so much for reading and supporting this story. Your love means everything! See you in the next chapter! ❤️

- StarlitWings ✨