🥀 24. 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭

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"We are lost!"

Jungkook's dramatic voice echoed through the forest, shattering the calmness. Taehyung who was walking beside her looked around in the surroundings with a composed gaze. His hands were folded at his chest as he stepped on the dried leaves, leaving a whining jungkook behind.

Jungkook who was sitting on a rock, looked at the fading figure of her husband. She stood up instantly and ran in that direction. As she rushed toward Taehyung through the tangled vines, she didn't see a protruding tree root.

"MR KIM! HOW DARE YOU LEAVE YOUR PRETTY INNOCENT WIFE ALONE IN THIS CREEPY FOREST?" Taehyung was about to look back but before that, a strong force collided with his back.

The impact caused Taehyung to lose his balance and he stumbled forward, his arms windmilling briefly before he landed on a bed of leaves with a loud rustling sound.

Jungkook's eyes widened with concern as she landed above him, the scent of damp soil filling the air. She hurriedly stood up and knelt beside her husband who was buried in the leaves.

"Oh no, Mr Kim, I'm so sorry! Are you okay?" Her hands hovered over him, searching for any signs of injury.

Taehyung raised his head and looked at his wife with a deadly gaze, "I'm fine, of course. just a bit surprised. How can you manage to carry problems everywhere you go? Huh?"

"It's..It's not like that. I do not carry problems, they follow me like a roadside Romeo," Jungkook stammered for a moment embarrassed by her action. Her cheeks were flushed slightly as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

"I'll be more careful next time!" Jungkook nodded in tiny.

"Next time?" Taehyung leaned in slightly, "You mean there will be a next time?"

Jungkook felt a pout form on her lips. "I didn't tackle you on purpose! It was an accident!" She tried to keep her tone light, even as she felt a blush creeping onto her cheeks.

"Accidents seem to follow you around," he replied.

"Excuse me!" Jungkook crossed her arms. "That's not fair. You make it sound like I'm clumsy."

"Just stating the facts." Taehyung stood up and gave his hand to his wife who was grumbling on the leave bed.

They both stood up and began dusting their clothes more likely the wife was removing the moist soil and leaves from her husband's clothes and hair.

"Wow, your hair is so soft. Which shampoo do you use?"

Taehyung held jungkook's dainty wrist in his big hands and removed it from his hair,

" don't! I don't like it when someone touches my hair. And what will you do after enquiring which shampoo I use?"

"Nothing, just for educational purposes," Jungkook let out a fake chuckle.

Taehyung rolled his eyes at her words. Without a word, he stepped out of the heap of dried leaves and moved ahead, his large hand clasping Jungkook's much smaller one in a protective grip.

Jungkook whined, glancing down at her hand, which was completely swallowed up by his rough, calloused palm.

"Why are you holding my hand and dragging me? I can walk, you know," she muttered, her voice laced with pouty tone.

"Can't take risks," Taehyung replied smoothly, "I'm with a kid who might get lost."

Jungkook's eyes widened and she puffed out her cheeks in protest, her lips forming an adorable pout.

"Meanie," she mumbled, her words followed by cute little grumbles. "I'm not a kid, just because you're taller doesn't mean I'm helpless, you know."

She huffed, her feet dragging slightly as she walked beside him.

After a few minutes, Jungkook couldn't resist breaking the silence, "Mr Kim, have you ever wondered what the trees are whispering to each other in this forest?"

Taehyung responded with a stoic look, "I'm more concerned about finding our way out of here."

A few minutes later,

Taehyung stopped beside a tree as he took out his phone and dialled his grandma's number. As the call connected, he spoke, "Hello, Grandma. We are lost in a forest."

His grandma's worry was noticeable through the phone. "Lost? Taehyung, how?"

"I had to come over construction site for some work. As the site is near the forest, I went inside and got lost," Taehyung answered, his attentive eyes gazing at the surroundings.

"Where is the site located?"

"Near Irin Lake," 

"Irin Lake? I think you are in Mystic Forest," Grandma exclaimed, skeptically.

"Mys... mystic what?" Taehyung asked unable to understand the word.

His grandma's voice, laden with caution, responded, "The Mystic Forest, Taehyung, is said to be the home of ancient evils. Be cautious, my dear. If you've found yourself in a Mystic forest, then walk carefully. Keep your senses sharp and find your way out as soon as you could."

Taehyung couldn't help but feel a heightened sense of responsibility. Concern etched on his face, he asked Grandma, "Is there any solution, any way to safely get out through the Mystic Forest?"

Grandma's voice responded, "Trust your instincts. Keep a clear heart and let your instinct guide you. There might be signs- Follow them, and they may lead you safely through. I'll contact Rosie. She might offer any path.

Stay connected with her and together, you may find a solution to guide you through the enchanted realms. Is jungkook with you?"

Taehyung looked at Jungkook as her name was mentioned, the elder male sighed, "Yes, Grandma,"

"Oh, Make sure to protect her. She hasn't realised her powers yet. It would be dangerous for her,"

Taehyung glanced at jungkook with blank eyes and replied, "Yes, I will."

Shivers ran down jungkook's spine as he heard the deep Husky voice and felt the soul-piercing gaze on her.

Shortly after Grandma's call, Taehyung's phone buzzed with an incoming call from Rosie.

"Taehyung," Rosie's voice carried urgency, "Mystic Forest, it's a dangerous place. Doesn't your magic work here? Try it, if it won't then the conclusion is clear."

Taehyung handed his phone to jungkook. He extended his hand and yelled in an authoritative tone, "Arathorn."

"Arathorn," taehyung tried again but there was no response.

"Seems like you are," Rosie spoke breaking the silence, " To protect yourselves, search for the magical moonflower tree hidden within in the forest. Once you find it, create a circle around the tree using the enchanted stones that you'll discover nearby."

Taehyung, listening intently, nodded as if Rosie could see him through the phone, "How do I identify the moonflower tree ?" he asked.

Rosie responded to Taehyung's query, "The moonflower tree has a majestic presence, its golden leaves shimmer in the moonlight, even in the daylight of the Mystic Forest. The tree's silver bark is adorned with luminescent patterns resembling the phases of the moon. And the moonlight falls directly on the tree,"

She continued, "You'll know you've found it when you feel a gentle aura surrounding the tree. Trust your instincts, Taehyung. The Mystic Forest will guide you to the moonflower's ethereal presence."

"And m...make s..s...ure to not to step o—-"

"Hello? Hello? Rosie?" Taehyung called out trying to connect.

"What happened?" Jungkook asked coming closer to the elder male.

Taehyung hissed loudly when he found no network in the region. He moved the phone to catch signals but couldn't, "Network problem. I couldn't hear what Rosie said in the end,"

Jungkook looked at Taehyung with concern. "What do we do now?"

Taehyung shared Rosie's instructions, "We need to find the magical moonflower tree. It has silver bark and leaves that glow like the moon. Once we locate it, we have to gather enchanted stones nearby to form a protective circle around the tree before sunset."

Jungkook nodded, absorbing the information, "Any clues on where to start looking for the moonflower tree?"

Taehyung evaluated their surroundings, "Rosie mentioned that the Mystic Forest would guide us. Let's trust our instincts and follow the aura she mentioned. Keep an eye out for anything that stands out."

Taehyung's gaze inadvertently fell upon Jungkook's clips. The moon and flower shapes caught his attention, sparking a realization.

Taking long strides, Taehyung approached his wife, who was idly tracing a random pattern on the rough bark of a tree. Jungkook sensed his presence, she turned, startled by how close he already was and her soft gasp was heard.

Their gazes locked instantly, Taehyung's intense eyes drawing Jungkook in, sending a sudden warmth rushing through her body. The rustling of the leaves under their feet mirrored the tension that hung between them. Taehyung took a slow step closer making Jungkook retreat, her back coming to rest against the tree behind her. Her breath caught in her throat as the closeness between them made her heart pound in her chest.

Taehyung's eyes—dark and unwavering—bore into hers, his stare made her feel both exposed and entranced. His gaze held her captive, causing suspense to build within her, like the stillness before a storm.

Jungkook's wide, innocent eyes blinked up at him, curiosity and shyness flickering in their depths.

Slowly, Taehyung raised his hand and Jungkook's gaze followed the movement. Her heart raced faster as his fingertips grazed her cheek with the softest touch which shivered down her spine. His thumb gently brushed along her cheekbone, tracing it which made her breath stutter.

Jungkook's hands found their way to the edges of Taehyung's shirt. Her small fingers curled into the fabric, holding onto it like an anchor, seeking something steady as the whirlwind of emotions overwhelms her.

Her eyes shut as his cool fingers glided from her cheek to the curve of her ear, tucking a stray strand of hair behind it. The light brush of his fingertips against her sensitive skin sent a rush of warmth through her and her breath hitched again.

Jungkook bit her lower lip, a small nervous habit that Taehyung quickly noticed. His eyes flickered down to her lips, the soft rosy hue deepened by the way she gently nibbled on them.

Taehyung's other hand came to rest just above her shoulder against the tree. It wasn't a gesture of dominance but one of quiet protection, creating an intimate bubble where only the two of them existed. His tall frame cast a shadow over her, his presence enveloping her in a way that made Jungkook hyper-aware of every breath, every heartbeat.

Her lashes fluttered gently against her flushed cheeks as she lowered her eyes, shyly trying to conceal the warmth that bloomed on her face. The soft scent of pine mixed with Taehyung's cologne, creating an intoxicating blend that blinded her senses.

Jungkook slowly opened her eyes, her gaze drifting up to meet his. his dark eyes made her pulse quicken, her fingers gripping his shirt even tighter, knuckles turning white. Her lips parted to say something but the words seemed to falter before they could find their way out.

"M-Mr. K-Kim..." Jungkook's voice wavered, her lips parting in a soft, stuttered breath.

Taehyung's gaze shifted, breaking from her eyes to settle on the delicate hair clips nestled in her dark locks. His fingers brushed against her ear and unclipped the small moon and flower-shaped clips that had been holding her hair in place.

"Your clips," he murmured, his voice low and husky, the deep timbre carrying an unspoken intimacy.

The metallic clips came in taehyung's hands and With that her hair tumbled down softly, framing her face and brushing against her shoulders. Taehyung stepped back, allowing the strands of her hair to flow freely.

The way her hair cascaded down made Taehyung pause for a moment. The sunlight filtering through the trees cast a soft glow on her, highlighting the delicate curves of her face, her flushed cheeks and her slightly parted lips.

Jungkook reached up to tuck a strand of her hair behind her ear, a small gesture that felt intimate. The redness in her cheeks deepened as she felt his gaze upon her. Her glossy lips, a subtle shade of red from her nervous biting, caught the faint light, drawing Taehyung's attention once again.

For a moment, neither of them spoke. Jungkook's wide, innocent eyes blinked up at him, her heart racing faster.

Taehyung's hand, still resting above her shoulder, slowly came down to brush against her arm in a feather-light touch, sending another wave of warmth through her.

Jungkook, caught between the tree and her husband, felt the heat of his body so close to hers, every inch of her skin alive with awareness.
Taehyung stepped back, his demeanour shifting. He coughed softly, clearing his throat as he examined the clips in his hand, the moon and flower-shaped pieces catching the soft light that filtered through the trees of the Mystic Forest. His fingers traced their edges thoughtfully, his dark eyes narrowing in focus.

"These clips," he began, his voice low and steady, almost as if he were thinking aloud. "They might hold the key to finding the moonflower tree."

Jungkook blinked in confusion, the earlier moment still making her head spin, but she quickly followed his line of thought, her curiosity piqued. "The moonflower tree?" she asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Taehyung nodded, glancing up at her with seriousness in his gaze. "Rosie mentioned something about the moonflower tree's leaves resembling the phases of the moon." He paused, holding up the clips so she could see the intricate design. "These clips—they match that description. It's almost like they're guiding us."

Jungkook's eyes widened slightly as she looked from the clips to her husband.

"Guiding us? Do you think they could lead us to it?" Her voice carried awe as if the clips she had once worn for aesthetic purposes now held some hidden meaning, something far greater than she had realized.

Taehyung's lips curled into a slight, knowing smile. "In a place like this," he said, glancing at the surrounding forest, "anything's possible."

Jungkook looked at the clips in her hand, her brows furrowing in confusion.

"But... they're just metal and stones, right?" she questioned her voice filled with curiosity.

"How can they lead us to anything? They're pretty, but..." She trailed off, glancing between Taehyung and the clips, trying to make sense of it all.

"Sometimes, it's not about what something is made of, but what it represents. These clips might seem simple but in a place like this, everything has its purpose—even if we can't see it right away."

Jungkook bit her lip, still unsure. She felt a flutter of doubt in her stomach, the practicality of her thoughts battling against the wonder of his belief.

"They just look like pretty decorations to me."

Taehyung tilted his head slightly, "Maybe that's exactly why they're special. They're tied to you. It's your connection to this place that gives them power."

Jungkook blinked, absorbing his words but tangled in confusion. Taehyung closed his eyes. Rosie's words echoed in his mind: In the Mystic Forest, only Alara's magic can work.

He opened his eyes, glancing at Jungkook, who was still tracing the intricate designs of the clips. he reached out and took her hand and placed the clips gently in her open palm, their stones catching the soft light.

"Mrs Kim," he whispered, his voice low and serious. "I believe these clips are more than just metal and stones. They might be connected to the magic of this forest."

Her eyes widened with curiosity as she looked at him but he could see the uncertainty still dancing in her gaze.

"What do you want me to do?" Jungkook asked softly, her fingers closing around the clips.

"Just trust me," he said, "I'm going to chant something. Let's see if anything happens."

Jungkook nodded, her heart racing as she felt the situation. Taehyung took a deep breath, closing his eyes again. He focused on the words he had learned. As he chanted, he could feel a warm energy spreading out from Jungkook's palm, a light from her closed fist.

Jungkook watched in awe, her heart pounding as the clips began to shimmer, particles of light dancing around them like fireflies. She gasped, her eyes wide with wonder.

"You're the key. Feel the magic within you."

Jungkook felt a strange connection to the forest around her. She squeezed Taehyung's hand tightly in fear.

"Alara... the chosen one..." one voice murmured, a soft melodic sound that made the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.

"Guide us, dear heart..."

Jungkook's eyes widened,  "Mr Kim," she breathed, glancing up at him, "do you hear that?"

Jungkook felt a rush of warmth in her chest, a sense of belonging that she had never experienced before.

"I... I think they're speaking to me," she stammered, her voice barely above a whisper.

Taehyung nodded, his eyes still closed, "Yes, they're responding to you," he encouraged softly, his grip on her hand was strong.

"Embrace it," Taehyung urged, "Let their magic flow through you."

"You hold the key, Alara," they echoed, the chorus of voices echoing in her heart. "Trust in your power. You are the bridge between worlds."

Suddenly, a clear voice emerged from the forest, cutting the air.

"Follow the clips, Alara and you shall find your destination."

Jungkook's heart raced at the sound. She glanced at the shimmering clips in her hand, their glow increasing second by second, signalling her to move.

Taking a deep breath, Jungkook felt courage. She stepped forward, the forest parting for them as they moved deeper into the greenery. The clips began to emit a warm light, guiding her steps like a beacon in the dusk.

the moon and flower-shaped clips began to sway in a particular direction. Taehyung and Jungkook, hand in hand, followed the clips through the Mystic Forest.

The clips were like celestial compass needles, pointed the way with a soft luminescence.

Together, they began their journey, following the tiny clips.

At the Kim manor, the atmosphere was thick with tension. Grandma paced the room, her worry was reflected by the stretch in her features. Soomin sat on the couch, her arms crossed tightly, frustration radiating from her.

"I can't believe this!" Soomin exclaimed, her voice sharp. "Jungkook has pulled Taehyung into danger with her foolishness. What was she thinking, wandering into that forest? She's only a distraction!"

Grandma stopped pacing to glare at Soomin, her expression laced with concern and irritation. "Watch your words, Soomin. Jungkook is not the enemy here. She's Taehyung's wife now; we should be supporting him, not blaming her."

Soomin scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Support? How can we support someone who's putting our family at risk? What if something happens to him out there? Jungkook is too naive to understand the dangers of that place!"

Grandma moved to the window, lost in thought. "All we can do is hope for the best."

Soomin slumped back into the couch, her anger simmering beneath the surface. "I just hope it doesn't cost him. If anything happens to him because of her..."

Just then, Grandma's phone rang and she quickly answered, "Rosie, thank goodness you called. We're in quite a situation. Taehyung and Jungkook have ventured into the Mystic Forest, and I'm not sure what to do."

On the other end, Rosie's tone shifted to serious.

"Yes, I know Grandma, the forest is unpredictable. It's beautiful but dangerous, filled with enchantments that can easily mislead even the strongest of souls. There are whispers in the trees, traps hidden in the shadows. If they're not careful..."

"What do we do?" Grandma interrupted, anxiety creeping into her voice. "Is there a way to help them?"

"Only Jungkook can protect Taehyung," Rosie replied, her words carrying a weight of conviction. "She is the Alara. If anyone can navigate its dangers, it's her. But she needs to believe in herself and trust her instincts."

Rosie's voice softened, "Grandma, I believe in Jungkook's strength, even if it doesn't seem obvious to you. Sometimes, the quietest souls hold the greatest power. Let's trust in them."

Grandma sighed, glancing out the window at the darkening sky. "We'll have to wait and see. All we can do now is hope for their safety and trust in Jungkook's abilities."

"But Jungkook is unaware of her powers," Grandma spoke.

"You don't need to worry," Rosie began, "If Jungkook is truly an Alara, then mark my words—there's nothing she won't do to protect Taehyung. She would walk through fire, face death itself if that's what it took. An Alara's love is boundless, their sacrifice absolute. If it comes to it, Jungkook would lay down her life, not out of fear but out of love. That's the power of an Alara and that's the power of Jungkook."

Grandma felt a chill run through her.

Grandma finally spoke, "But what if... she's not ready? What if Jungkook doesn't even know the full extent of what she's capable of? How can she make such a sacrifice if she doesn't even understand what's at stake?"

Rosie's gaze softened but the fire in her voice remained. "Readiness doesn't matter when love is involved. Jungkook may not know the depth of her powers yet but when the moment comes—when it's Taehyung's life on the line—she won't hesitate. That's the thing about true love. It doesn't wait for the right time or the right circumstances. It just acts, without thought for the consequences. Jungkook's heart will guide her, whether she's aware of her powers or not."

Grandma's brow furrowed with concern, "But what if it's Jungkook who's in danger? What if she's the one who needs protecting?"

"If Jungkook is in danger, then Taehyung will be the shield that stands between her and the world. Alara's bond is not one-sided. Taehyung would lay down his life for her without question. He is her strength, just as she is his."

She paused, her voice lowering, "But even if Taehyung is not there... Jungkook is not weak. Alara or not, love will push her to find the strength within herself. And if it comes down to it, she will fight for Taehyung just as fiercely as he would for her."

Rosie's words struck deep, offering hope in the fates. their bond was something neither magic nor danger could easily break. Grandma nodded slowly, though the worry never fully left her eyes.

Grandma sighed, "I pray you're right, Rosie. For all our sakes."

Covering another mile,

Jungkook's steps faltered, her heart pounding as a shiver of fear ran down her spine. She moved closer to Taehyung, her arm brushing against his. his presence offered comfort amidst the unknown setting.

Sensing her unease, Taehyung shifted slightly, closing the space between them. He didn't say a word, but his closeness was enough to ease the tension in her chest. The sound of their footsteps echoed softly through the towering trees.

they ventured deeper, the dense canopy of the giant trees parted, revealing a narrow path ahead. Jungkook gasped softly as they stumbled upon something unexpected—fireflies. The tiny creatures danced in the air, their soft light casting an ethereal glow over the dark landscape.

"It's so beautiful," Jungkook whispered, her voice full of awe as her gaze followed the floating orbs of light.

The fireflies illuminated the path in front of them against the darkness.

Taehyung glanced at her, "It feels like the forest is guiding us,"

Without a word, they continued walking side by side, their steps falling into sync. The fireflies hovered around them like tiny stars, lighting their way through the shadowy forest.

Jungkook's earlier fear melted away, replaced by wonder as they moved deeper into the glowing path. Every step felt like a dream, as if they had stepped into another world entirely—one filled with magic and secrets only the forest knew.

Hand in hand, they followed the path illuminated by the fireflies. Each tiny light guides them. The night sky above was dotted with stars but it was the fireflies that truly lit their way.

As they continued, the trees began to thin out, revealing a breathtaking sight ahead. They stopped in their tracks, both of them speechless as their eyes fell on a magnificent moonflower tree. Its silver leaves lit under the direct glow of the moonlight, the pale glow making the whole scene feel like a dream.

Taehyung and Jungkook stood before the moonflower, bathed in its silver glow. The forest had guided them to this very moment and now the celestial tree stood before them—its silver leaves shimmering under the full moon and its glow offering protection.

Jungkook's eyes traced the delicate outline of the moonflower's glowing leaves.

"It's... so beautiful," she whispered breaking the silence. Her voice was soft, barely audible, yet filled with awe.

Taehyung glanced at her, the light of the moonflower reflected in her wide eyes. "It is,"

Jungkook looked up at Taehyung. "What do we do now?" she asked, her large, curious eyes reflecting the soft light of the moonflower.

Taehyung's gaze remained on the moonflower before he slowly shifted his attention back to her.

Without saying anything, he reached into the pocket of his coat. Jungkook's eyes followed his hand, her curiosity piqued.

Taehyung's long fingers curled around the item before he slowly pulled it out—a small, delicate vial of glass that sparkled under the silver glow of the moonflower. The vial itself was simple, a crystal clear glass bottle with a wooden cork. Inside, a shimmering liquid swirled softly, a pale green that seemed almost alive, catching the moonlight and reflecting it.

Jungkook couldn't tear her eyes away from it.

Taehyung, noticing her reaction, paused for a moment. He held the vial between his thumb and forefinger, letting the light play off the liquid inside.

"This," he said softly, "is what Rosie gave me a few years back."

Jungkook glanced at the vial in Taehyung's hand, her brows furrowing slightly in curiosity.

"What's that?" she asked softly.

Taehyung didn't answer right away. Instead, he rolled the vial between his fingers once, twice, before looking back at her.

"It's... protection. A charm or a spell... something ancient. Rosie said we'd need it, that it would bind the moonflower's magic to us. But only if we use it here."

Jungkook's lips parted slightly as she absorbed his words. She stared at the shimmering liquid. Taehyung's gaze softened when he saw uncertainty in her eyes. He took a small step closer to her.

"Don't worry. It's meant to keep us safe."

The way he said it—so calm, so certain—made her feel a little more at ease. She nodded, her eyes not leaving the vial. "Okay. What do we do?"

Taehyung glanced down at the moonflower's glowing roots before meeting her gaze again. "I will pour it around the base of the tree. It will create a protective circle. Once it's done, the magic of the moonflower will be tied to us."

Jungkook swallowed hard, her heart racing but she nodded again. "okay," that's all she could mutter.

Taehyung slowly knelt in front of the moonflower, he took a deep breath and focused on the vial in his hand. He carefully uncorked the vial and the soft pop of the seal breaking echoed in the quiet forest.

The moment the vial opened, a sweet scent filled the air, like a mixture of wildflowers and something ancient—something that had existed long before either of them. The liquid inside sparkled even more brightly now.

Taehyung tilted the vial slightly and the liquid began to pour out slowly. He moved, carefully drawing a line of shimmering gold around the base of the moonflower. The liquid glowed even brighter when touched the ground, forming a perfect circle.

Jungkook's eyes were wide as the light spread. "It looks beautiful," she whispered, entranced by the magical sight.

Taehyung glanced at her as he continued to pour the liquid.

"It is beautiful, but it's also powerful. This circle will protect us and strengthen the connection between the moonflower and us."

Jungkook watched him in awe. Something was mesmerizing about the way he moved—so careful. His brow was furrowed in concentration and she could see the slight tension in his jaw as he focused on completing the circle.

The moonlight makes his features look even sharper and more defined. His dark hair, slightly tousled from the wind, fell over his forehead, and Jungkook found herself completely entranced by the way it framed his face.

Jungkook's thoughts raced as she continued to watch him. She was supposed to be focused on their task, on the magic of the moonflower but all she could think about was him.

The way his brow furrowed slightly in concentration, the way his lips pressed together as he worked—it was all... distracting.

She felt her cheeks warm and quickly averted her gaze, embarrassed at how easily she was becoming lost in thoughts of him.

But the feeling wouldn't go away. Jungkook found herself wondering what it would feel like to be closer to him, to have his full attention, to know more about the person behind that calm and composed exterior.

After completing the protective circle, Taehyung let out a small breath, wiping his hands on his coat before sinking to the ground beside Jungkook.

Jungkook glanced at him, feeling a little more at ease now that the task was done. She sat with her legs crossed, her fingers playing with the hem of her dress as she tried to settle her nerves.

Taehyung leaned back and stretched his legs out in front of him.

For a moment, neither of them spoke. The only sounds were the soft rustle of leaves in the wind and the occasional buzz of fireflies. The silence wasn't uncomfortable.

Jungkook fiddled with her fingers, her gaze flickering from the moonflower to the sky, trying to organize her thoughts. She wanted to say something, anything to break the silence, but the right words wouldn't come.

Instead, she found herself glancing at Taehyung again, stealing little looks at him when she thought he wasn't paying attention.

Finally, Taehyung broke the quiet, his voice soft and low. "Jungkook, you wanted to know why I married you, right?"

His gaze wasn't on her, though. Instead, it was fixed on the watch in his hands, his fingers idly turning it over and over. The moonflower's soft glow bathed him in silver light but it was the way his lips pressed together, a flicker of hesitation crossing his face, that caught Jungkook's attention.

She sat by the tree, knees pulled to her chest for comfort, her eyes searching his face. For a moment, the forest felt too quiet, too still. Her voice barely above a whisper, she answered, "Yes."

The word hung between them, heavy with the weight of everything left unsaid. Taehyung didn't move, didn't even look up at her. He simply stared at the watch, the lines of his face tightening slightly, a tension she hadn't noticed before.

"I'm cursed,"

•—————🥀—————•

Happy reading🌸