🥀 56. 𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐨𝐬

Enjoy 🌸

Minjun, Jimin, and Yeonjun were in the kitchen, setting up the breakfast table for everyone. The sun poured through the windows, casting a warm glow over the counters lined with plates, cutlery, and the fresh spread they had managed to gather together.

Jimin carefully placed a bowl of freshly cut fruit in the center, while Yeonjun poured juice into the glasses, watching the liquid rise to just the right level.

Once the table was set, Jimin paused to look over their work. Plates of toast, fresh butter, jam, sliced fruit, and a basket of warm rolls sat waiting for everyone to dig in. The three of them exchanged a look, feeling proud of their accomplishment.

Minjun, who had taken it upon himself to open a stubborn jar of strawberry jam, stood at the table with a furrowed brow, his small hands wrapped tightly around the lid as he twisted with all his might.

"Are you sure you don't need help with that?" Jimin asked, raising an eyebrow with a sly grin.

Minjun shot her a look of pure determination, cheeks puffed in stubborn resolve. "I've got it, okay? Just... almost... there!" he grunted, giving the jar another fierce twist, though the lid refused to budge.

Yeonjun leaned against the table, crossing his arms with a smirk. "If you keep struggling, the jar's gonna think you're giving it a workout. Want me to handle it?"

Minjun's grip tightened as he gave the jar one last try. "I can do it myself!" he insisted, though his hands were starting to slip, and his face flushed in embarrassment.

Jimin chuckled, reaching over to pat Minjun's shoulder. "Hey, we all have our strengths. Yours might not be in jam jars."

Yeonjun snickered, leaning in close. "Bet? he's about to give up and hand it over."

"I'm not giving up!" Minjun shot back, huffing as he mustered every ounce of strength in his ten-year-old frame. But the lid remained firmly in place, taunting him. He finally lowered the jar, exasperated.

Taehyung entered the dining room, his expression curious as he took in the scene: Jimin and Yeonjun grinning like cats with a secret, while Minjun sat holding the jam jar.

"What's happening?" Taehyung asked, glancing between them.

"Brother, What a timing!," Jimin chimed in. "Minjun here was giving us a masterclass in jam jar opening."

Taehyung raised an eyebrow, settling into his seat as he took in the sight of Minjun, whose cheeks had turned a light shade of pink. "A masterclass?"

Minjun held the jar tightly. "I will open it," he insisted, his tone brimming with determination as he gripped the lid even tighter. Jimin rolled her eyes dramatically, barely containing her chuckles.

But as Taehyung reached for his glass of water, Minjun shot him a quick, sly wink. Startled, Taehyung's brow arched in silent question, but Minjun subtly tilted the jar toward him, signaling his plan with a slight nod.

The message was clear: he wanted a LiTtLe help.

Hiding a smirk, Taehyung gave a nod back. As he raised his glass to drink, he flicked his wrist, and with a quiet click, the jam jar lid loosened effortlessly.

With a triumphant grin, Minjun held up the open jar. "See? Told you I'd get it!" he said, puffing up with pride.

Jimin and Yeonjun's jaws dropped, eyes widening in disbelief.

"How did you—?" Jimin started, glancing between the jar and Minjun's smug smile.

Minjun shrugged, looking as innocent as possible. "Just takes the right technique," He gave her a wink, enjoying the surprised expressions from both elders.

Taehyung's lips quirked, and he continued sipping his water, hiding his amusement at their little secret.

Jimin narrowed her eyes, her gaze shifting from Minjun to Taehyung. She observed her older brother for a long moment, piecing together the hints.

"Aha!" Jimin exclaimed, pointing an accusing finger. "I knew it. Brother, you used magic, didn't you?"

"Magic? Me?" Taehyung replied, trying to look utterly baffled. "It was all Minjun's strength."

Minjun beamed, playing along, his shoulders squared proudly as he held up the jar as evidence. "Exactly! Pure muscle power."

Jimin crossed her arms, fixing Taehyung with a knowing look. "You can fool Minjun, but not me, Brother. You definitely helped him."

Yeonjun, catching on, started laughing. "So Minjun's masterclass was a little more like... magic class?"

Jimin follwed his lead and chuckled. Both sibling began to laugh, clapping their hands. Minjun shot them both a look, then looked up at Taehyung with a pout.

"I'll need more practice if I'm going to beat these two," he joked, and Taehyung reached over to tousle Minjun's hair.

"Alright, alright," Taehyung admitted, shrugging. "Maybe a tiny bit of magic was involved."

Jimin shook her head, trying to hide a smile as she nudged Minjun. "Next time, just ask for help, okay? No need to summon the magician in residence."

The room burst into laughter. Just then, Soomin and Grandma entered, their eyes brightening at the lively scene unfolding around the breakfast table. Both paused, exchanging amused glances as they took in the laughter of the children.

Noticing their presence, Yeonjun and Jimin immediately stood up, eager to impress with their hosting skills. They exchanged quick nods, both stepping into the roles of little hosts with an endearing seriousness.

"Welcome, ladies and gentlemen," Yeonjun announced, attempting a formal tone that only added to the amusement.

"Today's breakfast feast is specially prepared by us, with only the finest ingredients." He gestured grandly at the table, laden with warm pastries, fresh fruits, and, of course, the freshly opened jar of jam.

Jimin stepped forward, hands clasped behind her back, "We have everything—freshly toasted bread, sweet jam expertly opened by Minjun, and... hmm, the finest tea Grandma could ever dream of!"

Grandma chuckled softly, a hand covering her smile as she took her seat. "Such a feast! I'm honored," she said warmly, her eyes twinkling.

Soomin nodded with approval. "You two make quite the team," she noted. "Maybe you'll be hosting more breakfasts like this in the future."

Yeonjun beamed, standing a bit taller at the compliment, while Jimin gave a polite bow, clearly pleased with the acknowledgment. Minjun, still holding the jam jar triumphantly, chimed in with a proud grin.

Taehyung leaned over to Grandma and whispered, "Quite a production for breakfast, isn't it?"

Grandma nodded, laughing softly. "With this much enthusiasm, every morning could be a banquet."

As everyone took their seats, Grandma scanned the breakfast table, her gaze lingering on each dish before she finally gave a small, knowing hum. "Something seems to be missing," she remarked thoughtfully, her eyes twinkling with playfulness.

The children exchanged glances, trying to figure out what she was hinting at, but Grandma's eyes landed on Taehyung, and she tilted her head slightly.

"Ah, the light of our breakfast," she said warmly. "Where's your wife, Taehyung?"

Without a hint of hesitation, Taehyung replied stoically, "She's still sleeping."

His calm, matter-of-fact tone earned an immediate reaction. Jimin and Yeonjun exchanged glances, grins creeping onto their faces. Jimin leaned forward, resting her chin in her hand.

"Still sleeping, is she?" she repeated with a playful lilt. "Looks like someone kept her up quite late..."

Yeonjun chuckled, jumping in with an excessive sigh. "Poor sister-in-law, probably exhausted. It's hard work keeping up with our dear brother here."

He winked at Jimin, and the two of them burst into loud chuckles. Taehyung's expression didn't waver, his face as unemotional as ever and rolled his eyes. The man chose to ignore them and focus on buttering his bread. 

"Are you all done?" he asked coolly, lifting an eyebrow at Jimin and Yeonjun.

Jimin only shrugged, her grin growing. "We're just looking out for Jungkook, that's all," she said, her tone mockingly serious. "She's practically family now."

Grandma chuckled, patting Taehyung's hand. "Let them tease, Taehyung. I think it's sweet that they care so much about her. The breakfast table isn't complete without her around."

Taehyung glanced at his sibling and shook his head. Soomin, who had been quietly observing the exchange, finally allowed a small smile to tug at the corner of her lips.

The mention of Jungkook had brought this smile, something Taehyung could almost miss if he weren't paying attention. Soomin looked at Taehyung with an unreadable expression but a smile was unmistakable.

The lively chatter at the breakfast table was interrupted by the sound of soft footsteps padding toward the dining room. Heads turned as Jungkook appeared in the doorway, her wet hair loosely tied back and her dress flowing softly around her.

Her radiant smile lit up the room as she greeted everyone with a cheerful, "Good morning, everyone!"

The sound of her voice was like a fresh breeze, instantly adding a energy to the already bright morning.

"Good morning!" Grandma replied warmly, her eyes crinkling with delight. "There's the light of our breakfast!"

Yeonjun grinned, waving a hand. "Look who finally decided to grace us with her presence! Morning, sil!"

"Sil?" Jungkook frowned, her brows knitting together in confusion as she tilted her head at him.

"Yeah, short for sister-in-law," Yeonjun replied matter-of-factly, leaning back in his chair. "Because 'sister-in-law' is waaaaay too big. Ain't nobody got time for all that."

Jungkook blinked at him, her lips twitching as she tried to suppress a chuckle. "You're seriously that lazy?"

"Efficient, not lazy," Yeonjun corrected with a cheeky smirk.

Jungkook crossed her arms, giving Yeonjun a pointed look. "How about you just call me by my name instead? Jungkook isn't that long, is it?"

Yeonjun froze for a moment, his grin faltering as he glanced at Taehyung, who was quietly sipping his tea with that unreadable expression. His older brother didn't say a word, but the subtle raise of his brow spoke volumes.

"Yeah," Yeonjun said with a panoramic sigh, throwing his hands up in surrender. "If I dare to call you by your name, this big brother of mine will probably throw me in front of a train for disrespecting his precious wife."

Taehyung set his cup down with intentional calmness, his gaze shifting to Yeonjun. "I wouldn't do that."

"See? He wouldn't do that," Jungkook chimed in, though she couldn't help but glare at Taehyung's composed face.

Yeonjun scoffed, leaning back. "Not literally, but the way he looks at me? Feels like I'd be metaphorically flattened by a train. I value my life too much, Jungkook, uh—Sil"

Minjun spoke out cutting their talks, bouncing slightly in his seat. "Kookie! Look at this—I opened the jam jar all by myself!" He puffed his chest proudly, holding up the jar like it was a trophy.

Jungkook's giggle rang out as she clasped her hands together. "Really? That's amazing, Minjun! You're so strong!"

Minjun beamed at the praise, soaking it in while Jimin and Yeonjun exchanged amused glances behind him.

Jungkook made her way around the table, greeting everyone with her usual chirpiness. However, as her eyes landed on Soomin, the elder woman remained quiet, offering only a reserved nod. Jungkook's smile faltered for the briefest moment, but she quickly recovered and moved on without missing a beat.

Finally, her gaze shifted to Taehyung, who had been quietly observing her. Jungkook's cheerful expression dropped instantly, replaced by a sharp glare that she directed solely at him.

Her eyes locked onto his with an intensity that demand answers without words. Taehyung's calm expression didn't waver, but the acknowledgment in his eyes betrayed that he had noticed her silent anger.

Jungkook broke her stare first, turning away from Taehyung with a huff as she sat down in her seat. She picked up a slice of toast. Taehyung resumed buttering his own bread as if nothing had happened.

Yet, beneath his calm exterior, he was fully aware of the storm brewing in his wife's eyes.

Minjun leaned toward Jungkook with a big grin. "I saved you a roll! It's still warm!"

Her sharp expression softened as she turned to Minjun, a genuine smile gracing her lips. "Thank you, Minjun. You're the sweetest," she said, ruffling his hair gently.

Jimin chimed in, leaning forward on her elbows. "Jungkook! Did you sleep well?" she teased, her smirk devilish.

Jungkook paused mid-step, her head snapping toward Jimin. Her lips curved into a saccharine smile, though the storm in her eyes was impossible to miss. "Oh, I wasn't sleeping, Jimin," she replied sweetly, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I was just recovering from the... unexpected splash of excitement your brother decided to gift me."

Her words made Jimin's smirk faltered for a brief moment as she processed it. Yeonjun, seated nearby, choked on his drink, his eyes darting between Jungkook and Taehyung.

The moment didn't go unnoticed by Taehyung, whose gaze flickered briefly to Jungkook before returning to his plate.

His wife's anger would be addressed later—privately.

Jungkook's lips tightened as her eyes narrowed further, silently challenging him. Taehyung cleared his throat softly, his lips twitching as though holding back a sigh. He wasn't one to crumble easily, but his wife's wrath was a formidable force.

He subtly mouthed across the table, What?

Jungkook's glare deepened, her eyes practically sparking. She mouthed back, You know.

I don't! he mouthed again, his face betraying confusion.

Jimin watched the silent exchange. She leaned over to Yeonjun and whispered, "Look at them. It's like they're having a full-blown argument without saying a word."

Yeonjun snorted softly. "Brother in trouble, huh? Think sil will break him?"

"Break him?" Jimin grinned. "She's already won. Look at his eyes. He's panicking."

It was subtle, but they were right. Beneath Taehyung's composed face, there was uncertainty dancing in his gaze.

Grandma glanced between Taehyung and Jungkook, her lips curving into a soft smile. "Taehyung," she said lightly, breaking the moment, "would you pass the jam?"

He nodded, his movements automatic as he handed the jar across the table. Taehyung knew exactly why Jungkook was angry. The innocent husband had replayed the scene in his mind more times than he cared to admit, each memory making him internally groan.

It had started so innocently—or so he thought.

Flashback Starts.......

Jungkook stepped out of the bathroom. Her hair was damp, curling delicately at the ends, and her fresh face glowed with a natural beauty. She was already dressed in a simple yet elegant outfit—a flowy blouse tucked neatly into tailored skirt, her dainty jewelry adding right touch of charm.

She looked relaxed, humming a soft tune as she made her way to the dresser.

That serenity, however, lasted all of five seconds.

Taehyung, lounging on the edge of the bed, had been absently swirling the water in his glass, the ripples catching the light as they danced lazily along the surface. His mind wandered until his eyes caught sight of her reflection in the mirror across the room.

And that was it.

He was utterly captivated, his gaze locking on her like Jungkook was the only thing that mattered in the world. The way her hair clung lightly to her skin, the grace in her every movement, the soft smile playing at her lips—it was almost too much for his heart to handle.

"Wow,"

Jungkook was glowing—like an ethereal goddess freshly descended from the heavens. He'd been so caught up in marveling at her beauty that he failed to notice the way his fingers flicked slightly.

And that was when disaster struck.

The harmless ripple in his glass suddenly turned into a full-blown wave. A splash of water formed out of nowhere and flew through the air, arching in a perfect trajectory... directly toward Jungkook.

Time slowed as he watched the glistening arc of water make contact.

One second, Jungkook was pristine, wrapped in the cozy embrace of her post-bath calm. The next, she was drenched—water dripping from her hair, trailed over her blouse and completely ruined her previously crisp appearance.

It was a moment of pure chaos wrapped in cruel irony.

For a moment, there was complete silence, save for the faint sound of water dripping onto the hardwood.

"Ahhh!" Jungkook gasped, freezing in place as the icy sensation stole the breath from her lungs.

Her freshly ironed blouse clung awkwardly to her frame, and the fabric of her skirt darkened where the water seeped in. She stood there, utterly still, her body trembling—not from the cold but from the disbelief coursing through her veins.

Taehyung sat frozen, his mouth slightly agape as he watched the water drip from her hair and onto the floor.

Jungkook turned slowly, her expression a mixture of disbelief and simmering rage. Her wide eyes narrowed, her lips pressed into a thin line and Taehyung—stoic, unshakable Taehyung—felt his soul leave his body.

"Kim Taehyung," Jungkook said, her voice dangerously calm. "What. Did. You. Do?"

Taehyung blinked, his brain scrambling for a plausible explanation. "I—uh..." His eyes darted to the empty glass in his hand, then back to her drenched form.

"Magic?" he offered weakly, lifting his hands in a feeble gesture of innocence..

Her glare intensified. "Magic," she repeated, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "your magic decided to redecorate my outfit with water? Is that what you're saying?"

"Well... you do look radiant when you're all sparkly like that," he tried, a sheepish grin creeping onto his face as if that would somehow soften the blow.

Wrong move.

Jungkook's jaw dropped slightly, and then her lips pressed into a thin, unforgiving line. Her hands clenched at her sides, fingers twitching as if she was physically restraining herself from strangling him.

Taehyung swore he could feel the temperature in the room drop and for a man of his magical prowess, that was saying something. She didn't say another word, but the storm in her eyes spoke volumes.

"Let me fix it—" he started, rising from the bed, but Jungkook immediately cut him off with a glare so sharp it made him flinch.

"Stay. Right. There." Her voice held a warning that promised untold consequences if he dared to disobey.

Like a chastised puppy, Taehyung sat back down, his hands awkwardly clasped in his lap. He watched helplessly as Jungkook spun on her heel and stormed back toward the bathroom, her steps heavy with irritation. Water dripped from her hair and clothes, leaving a damp trail in her wake.

Jungkook yanked the bathroom door open and slammed it shut behind her, the sound reverberating through the room.

Taehyung let out a long, shaky breath, running a hand through his hair as he muttered under his breath, "She's going to kill me."

He leaned back against the bedpost, staring at the water on the floor as if it held all the answers to his predicament. His mind raced, already calculating how many days of apologies—and bribes—it would take to earn her forgiveness.

────── Flashback Ends ──────.⋅★.

And now, at the breakfast table, as Jungkook's pointed glares drilled into the side of his head, he felt her silent judgment. Her meticulously styled hair was still slightly damp at the ends and she had clearly redone her makeup in a hurry.

She's fuming, Taehyung thought, carefully avoiding her gaze.

Jungkook, meanwhile, was on a mission to make him squirm. Every sip of her juice, every pointed clink of her spoon against the cup, was a not-so-subtle reminder of her displeasure.

Taehyung kept his stoic facade intact, though his fingers fidgeted slightly with the edge of his napkin. He knew better than to speak first.

Jungkook's anger was like a storm—if he prodded too soon, it would only grow fiercer.

When Jungkook finally met Taehyung's eyes, he braced himself. Her gaze was sharp, yet there was a mischievous glint there—a sign that she was milking his guilt for all it was worth.

So, you're just going to pretend nothing happened? her look seemed to say.

Taehyung let out a quiet sigh and, under the table, subtly flicked his fingers. A small breeze ruffled Jungkook's hair gently, carrying the faintest scent of lavender.

It was his unspoken apology—soft, tender, and full of remorse.

But Jungkook wasn't ready to let him off the hook. Her eyes narrowed further, and she raised an eyebrow as if to say, You think that's enough?

Taehyung almost smiled. She was angry, yes, but she was also undeniably adorable in her righteous indignation.

Taehyung was not one to openly grovel—especially not in front of his family. 

But subtle gestures? Those were his specialty.

And right now, he needed to melt his angry wife, even with everyone present at the breakfast table.

He started innocently enough, buttering a slice of toast carefully. Once it was ready, he casually added a delicate swirl of strawberry jam on top, the gleaming red spreading like a perfectly painted stroke. Then he placed the slice onto Jungkook's plate without a word.

Jungkook glanced down at the offering, then up at him, her eyes narrowing.

Taehyung met her gaze with his usual stoic expression, tilting his head slightly as if to say, What? I'm just being considerate.

Jungkook, refusing to be swayed so easily, picked up the toast and took a small bite. She chewed slowly, her sharp glare still fixed on Taehyung. Her expression screamed, This doesn't mean I've forgiven you.

Unfazed, Taehyung continued his efforts. This time, he reached for the coffee. Then, a thin wisp of steam curled unusually gracefully from the spout, forming a fleeting, heart-shaped swirl before dissipating.

Jungkook caught it immediately, her brows knitting together in surprise.

"Careful," he murmured in that deep, velvety voice of his while sliding the cup to her. "It's hot."

Jungkook's eyes flicked to the steaming cup, her annoyance softening slightly. She shot him another pointed look, her sharp eyes meeting his stoic ones.

He raised an eyebrow ever so slightly, a silent, innocent What?

Grandma watched the silent interaction and chuckled softly. "Such a considerate husband, isn't he?" she remarked, her tone full of amusement.

"Oh, he's something, grandma," Jungkook replied, her voice saccharine-sweet as she sent Taehyung another pointed look.

Taehyung's ears perk up. She didn't break eye contact with him as she added smoothly, "Always full of surprises."

Taehyung's fingers paused mid-movement. He knew that tone all too well—a sweet layer disguising a sharp blade underneath. Her eyes flicked to him briefly, a silent warning cloaked in her charming words.

"Surprises?" Jimin chimed in, her curiosity piqued. "What surprises? Is there something we should know?"

Jungkook's smile didn't falter as she leaned back slightly, taking her cup of tea with deliberate grace. "Oh, nothing too important," she replied airily. "Just little things he does to keep me... happy."

Taehyung calmly placed his glass down, his lips twitching slightly into the barest smirk. "I'm glad to keep you happy," he said evenly, his tone carrying the trace of challenge.

Jimin looked between them, her brow furrowing slightly. "You two are acting weird."

Grandma chuckled knowingly, tapping her fingers lightly on the table. "Not weird, just married."

Unbothered, Taehyung reached for the chocolate pastry and just as Jungkook looked down at her plate, it appeared there as if by magic—because it was.

Chocolate is her weakness and Taehyung knew it very well.

Jungkook clenched her jaw and looked up to find him adding sugar cube into a teacup, acting as though nothing had happened.

"Eat," he said softly, his tone almost coaxing.

Her glare deepened, though a faint pink crept into her cheeks. He's infuriating, she thought. How does he always do this so effortlessly?

Across the table, Jimin nudged Yeonjun. "He's using his tricks again. Did you see that?"

"I did," Yeonjun whispered back with a grin. "Looks like someone's in damage control mode."

Jimin smirked. "He better be careful. Jungkook isn't easy to win over."

Unbothered by their commentary, Taehyung leaned back slightly, his hands resting on the table as he watched Jungkook with that unshakable calm.

Jungkook sighed, clearly torn between holding onto her anger and melting under his attentiveness. She eat the spoonful of the sweet treat but deliberately avoided meeting his eyes, though the corners of her mouth twitched slightly.

Still, Jungkook shot him one last glare, as if to remind him that this battle wasn't over.

Taehyung's lips quirked up slightly in a barely-there smile. He'd play the long game. Magic or no magic, he knew his wife well enough to understand that persistence—and just a touch of charm—would always win out in the end.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

The soft click of Jungkook's sandals echoed through the grand hallway as she walked. As much as she wanted to dismiss the incident entirely, the memory of Taehyung's sheepish grin and his ridiculous excuse of "magic" still gnawed at her.

Just as she rounded a corner, she caught movement in her peripheral vision. Turning her head slightly, she found herself face-to-face with Taehyung, who had been trailing her like a shadow. His stoic expression betrayed nothing outwardly but the hesitation in his step and the cautious way he held himself spoke volumes.

"Are you planning to follow me all day, Mister Kim Taehyung?" she asked without breaking stride, her voice as sharp as the click of her sandals.

"I'm not following," he replied evenly, matching her pace. His hands were tucked into his pockets, his broad shoulders relaxed, though his eyes flicked to her face as if gauging her mood. "I'm just... ensuring my wife isn't plotting my demise."

Jungkook shot him a glare, her lips twitching upward before flattening back into a line. "If I were, you'd be the last to know."

He smirked at her sass. "Fair point. But I'd like to think you'd at least leave a hint."

Jungkook stopped abruptly, turning to face him with a huff. "You're really enjoying this, aren't you?"

Taehyung shrugged, his expression maddeningly calm. "I'd rather enjoy your company than your wrath. But both are oddly entertaining."

Jungkook narrowed her eyes at him, though the corner of her mouth betrayed a reluctant curve. She let out a soft scoff, shaking her head as she turned back to continue walking. But before she could take more than a step, Taehyung lifted his hand subtly, a faint shimmer of magic gliding through the air.

Within seconds, delicate rose petals appeared, spiraling gently around her.

Jungkook paused, startled by the sudden soft crimson hues. The petals danced and brushed against her cheeks and shoulders, filling the hallway with a floral fragrance.

She turned her head, eyes wide and lips parted in surprise, and found Taehyung standing there with smugness in his dark eyes.

"A peace offering," he said, his voice low and sincere.

Jungkook shook her head, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks as she resumed her stride. Taehyung followed at a respectful distance, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction as he watched her.

"Mrs Kim," his voice came, low and tentative.

The wife stopped abruptly as if waiting for the call, turning on her heel. "What?" she snapped, her arms folding tightly over her chest.

Taehyung looked at her—really looked at her—and for a moment, he forgot why Jungkook was mad. The soft light through the windows illuminated her features, highlighting her and the way her dark hair framed her face like she was a painting come to life.

"Why are you following me?"

"To apologize," he said earnestly, his longer strides allowing him to catch up to her. "I didn't mean to ruin your morning. I can't help it, you know."

Jungkook's brows furrowed. "Can't help what? Accidentally drenching me in one fine morning?"

"No," Taehyung murmured, taking a cautious step closer. "I can't help being so completely captivated by you."

Her glare faltered for a moment, but she quickly schooled her features, narrowing her eyes at him. "Mr Kim, don't even—"

"Listen," he interrupted gently, his tone coaxing. "It wasn't my magic acting out of control. It was you."

Her jaw dropped. "Me? You're blaming me for your magic?"

"Yes," Taehyung said seriously, his eyes locking onto hers. "You walked out of that bathroom looking like some kind of divine being, Mrs Kim. Do you have any idea what that does to a man? To me?"

Her cheeks tinged pink despite herself, but she wasn't ready to give in just yet.

"You stood there glowing, hair cascading like silk, and your smile—it's unfair. My magic couldn't keep still because my heart couldn't either. It was like the universe itself was trying to show me just how radiant you are."

Jungkook blinked, momentarily speechless as he continued, his voice dropping to a near whisper. "If I'm guilty of anything, it's being completely and utterly helpless against you. You leave me no choice but to adore you, even if it means my magic decides to... well, celebrate your beauty a little too enthusiastically."

She stared at him, her mouth opening and closing as she tried to formulate a response. His words were ridiculous, poetic, and completely disarming—all at once.

Finally, Jungkook managed, "You're unbelievable."

"I'm honest,"

Jungkook exhaled sharply, her anger ebbing as she processed the sincerity in his eyes. "You're lucky you're good with words," she muttered, the corner of her mouth twitching upward despite her best efforts.

"Not words," he corrected gently. "Just you."

Jungkook rolled her eyes, though the gesture lacked its usual bite. "Fine. Apology accepted. But if you ever ruin my hair again, Mr Kim—"

"I'll grovel for the rest of my life," he promised, the playful glint in his eyes returning.

Jungkook's sharp retort hung in the air but her anger had melted under Taehyung's heartfelt words. The grand and spacious hallway suddenly felt small as Taehyung stepped closer.

Jungkook swallowed hard, her heart hammering against her ribcage. The fire in her eyes dimmed, replaced by a flustered vulnerability she couldn't quite hide. She crossed her arms, more out of habit than defense.

"You're... still in trouble," she muttered, her voice quieter now.

"I'll take the punishment gladly," Taehyung replied, his tone low and earnest. Then he paused, tilting his head slightly as his lips curved into the faint smile. "But first... I need to make sure you're not still angry with me."

Taehyung took another small step forward, closing the distance until barely a meter separated them.

Their proximity felt charged.

Jungkook could catch the faint scent of his musky cologne blending with the delicate floral perfume she had dabbed on that morning. His eyes dropped momentarily to her lips and her breath hitched as if he had whispered some secret that only she could hear.

Taehyung's hand lowered slightly, brushing the edge of her sleeve and her pulse raced. His eyes held hers, drawing her in like a magnet she had no strength to resist.

Jungkook didn't move, her cheeks flushing with a delicate pink hue. He leaned forward slightly. The wife's lashes fluttered, her irritation completely forgotten as her lips parted slightly—

"Taehyung!"

The loud, familiar voice rang out, and the spell shattered like glass hitting the floor.

Jungkook jumped back as if struck by lightning, her face now a deep shade of red. She spun on her heel so fast she almost tripped, pretending to adjust the hem of her blouse with fumbling fingers.

Taehyung straightened instantly and an akward cough escaped him. He ran a hand through his dark hair, trying to mask his own flustered state, the tips of his ears glowing red.

Jungkook stole a glance at him, biting her lip as she saw him adjusting his tie unnecessarily, his gaze firmly fixed on some random spot on the floor. He looked like a teenager caught passing love letter in class, and she couldn't help the small smile that tugged at her lips.

"Taehyung!" the voice called again, and this time, both turned toward the sound. It was Grandma, striding toward them with a phone in hand.

"What were you two doing?" she asked lightly, though the glint in her eyes suggested she already had an idea.

"Nothing!" Jungkook blurted out, her voice a little too quick and defensive. She stepped to the side, attempting to put more space between herself and Taehyung, but her traitorous body betrayed her as she bumped into the wall.

Taehyung cleared his throat. "Just... talking," he said smoothly, though his own cheeks were a suspicious shade of pink.

Grandma raised a brow but didn't comment. Instead, she handed the phone to Taehyung. "It's about the orphanage, dear. They need to discuss something urgent with you."

Taehyung nodded, taking the phone. "I'll handle it," he murmured, his composure quickly returning as he turned slightly away to take the call.

Grandma didn't move immediately, her perceptive eyes dancing between her grandson and Jungkook.

"Don't keep them waiting," she said, her tone light but teasing.

"Yes, of course," Taehyung replied, his tone polite, though the way his gaze briefly flicked back to Jungkook betrayed his inner distraction.

As Grandma turned to leave, Jungkook shifted awkwardly, finally daring to glance up. Their eyes met for a brief second—her shy gaze clashing with his steady one.

"Go, take the call," Jungkook mumbled, her voice barely audible as she looked away, her face still burning.

Taehyung brought the phone to his ear as the call connected, his voice dropping into that commanding tone he reserved for serious conversations.

"Yes, this is Kim Taehyung," he began, his expression as composed as ever. But as he started walking past Jungkook, he suddenly stopped.

Without warning, he leaned down and brushed his lips lightly against hers—a fleeting kiss that caught Jungkook completely off guard.

Jungkook froze, her arms falling limply to her sides as her wide eyes shot up to meet his. She barely registered the conversation on the other end of his phone. Taehyung straightened as if nothing had happened. His dark eyes softened for a moment, and a subtle curve at the corner of his lips betrayed his joy at her stunned expression.

"Don't wander off," he murmured softly, his voice low and intimate, like a secret meant just for her ears.

Then, with the grace and composure only he could manage, he turned on his heel and walked away, the phone pressed to his ear as if the kiss was merely a casual punctuation to his day.

Jungkook, however, stood frozen in place. Her breath hitched, her heart racing so fast it felt like it might leap out of her chest, and her cheeks burned with a blush that spread all the way to her ears.

Slowly, the realization of what had just happened sank in. With a soft squeak of disbelief, she darted to the nearest pillar, burying her face against the cool surface. Her hands flew to her cheeks, covering them as if that would somehow hide her flustered state from the world.

"Kim Taehyung," Jungkook hissed under her breath. "How dare you—ugh!" Her muffled squeal reverberated against the pillar as she stomped her foot in frustration.

But even as she pretended to be furious, a shy smile tugged at the corners of her lips, betraying the way her heart fluttered uncontrollably. She couldn't help but peek out from behind the pillar, her eyes trailing after his retreating figure. He was still talking on the phone, his posture relaxed as if he hadn't just sent her into a complete frenzy.

Biting her lip, Jungkook buried her face back into the pillar, trying and failing to suppress another quiet squeal. It was infuriating.

It was wonderful.

It was Taehyung. And as much as she wanted to stay angry, her heart betrayed her, humming with a warmth she couldn't deny.

They might be married, but moments like these made them feel like teenagers experiencing first love all over again.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Is it true?

Big Announcement Incoming! 🚨✨

Your authornim has some juicy updates for you!

After much thinking (and staring into space while my notebook judged me), I've got an approximate idea of where this story is heading.

Drumroll, please... 🥁

This book will likely wrap up around 80 chapters, maybe stretching to 100 at the absolute max (depending on how much chaos Taehyung and Jungkook decide to bring).

Honestly, every idea that pops into my head, I throw it into this book. Why?

Because I don't want to look back later and be like, "Hawwwwww, I didn't add this or that scene!" or, even worse, "How did I forget to include this amazing plot twist?"

(ಥ _ ಥ)

BUT don't panic, we're not there yet! There's still so much left—more drama, fluffy moments that will make your heart burst and those "oh-my-god-did-that-just-happen" twists you all love.

Here's a little teaser for what's to come (spoiler alert!):

✨Doting husband Taehyung being extra soft and possessive over Jungkook (as usual).

✨Their not-so-innocent moments (yep, you know what I mean 👀🔥).

✨ Preggo Jungkook! (Cue overprotective Tae being a mess but also adorable in his own way.)

✨ Some surprises that I won't spoil here—but trust me, they're worth it!

Now, here's the real deal:

The story isn't getting bored, right? 😅 Be honest! I mean, we've been on this rollercoaster for a while now. Is it still thrilling or should I throw in some extra plot twists just to keep you awake? (Not that Taehyung and Jungkook need help causing chaos.)

Can you stick with me till the very end? 🥺 I mean, we've come this far together—don't leave me hanging now! Okay? 🔪🔪🔪🔪🔪

Drop a 💜 if you're riding this rollercoaster all the way to the final chapter.