🥀 𝟏𝟗. 𝐁𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐠𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐡𝐮𝐬𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐨𝐧?

Enjoy

The sleek black car pulled up smoothly in front of the Kim Manor, its glossy surface reflecting the bright sunlight.

The driver stepped out first, swiftly moving to the back to open the door. From the car emerged two impeccably dressed women, their presence immediately demanded attention the moment they set foot on the gravel driveway.

Aunt Yin was the first to step out, her high heels clicking against the stone as she smoothed down the hem of her tailored ivory coat. Her sunglasses perched atop her nose, covering half of her face but doing nothing to hide the sharp, almost scrutinizing way she glanced around. With her chin tilted slightly upwards, she surveyed the manor as though inspecting it for imperfections. Her lips painted a striking shade of red, curved into a self-satisfied smile.

Following closely behind was Aunt Kin. Her hair was styled into perfect waves that cascaded over her shoulders and she carried an oversized designer handbag, swinging it slightly as she stepped forward. Kin's eyes darted towards Yin and without even looking at her sister, Yin gave a slight nod, as if they had silently approved of the manor before even setting foot inside.

"Well, isn't this quaint," Yin commented, her voice dripping with politeness, the kind that barely masked her superiority. She adjusted her sunglasses and took a deep breath as if the air itself was a matter of quality to her.

Kin smiled, though it was more of a smirk, her eyes flicking towards the manor's entrance.

The two women climbed up the stairs of the grand manor. Every movement they made oozed elegance, but superiority was present. They didn't rush, didn't falter—each step was poised as if the world itself should wait for them.

As they approached the door, Yin paused and glanced back at the car, her eyebrow arching slightly.

"Make sure the bags are handled carefully," she called out to the driver.

"These are expensive ."

Kin nodded in agreement, brushing an invisible speck of dust off her shoulder before adding, "We wouldn't want any accidents now, would we?"

Without another glance at the staff, the two sisters turned towards the door, exchanging a look of approval before they were escorted inside.

The grand doors of Kim Manor swung open just as Aunt Yin and Aunt Kin approached, revealing Soomin standing at the entrance. Her lips curled into a welcoming smile.

" Yin & Kin," Soomin greeted warmly, bowing slightly in respect, "Welcome! It's such a pleasure to have you both here."

Yin and Kin barely acknowledged the gesture, their eyes swiftly scanning Soomin from head to toe as if measuring her worth in that single glance. Yin's gaze lingered a little longer than necessary on the slight crease in Soomin's perfectly ironed dress, meanwhile, Kin's eyes flickered to the décor in the entryway, her expression suggesting it was just acceptable.

"Soomin, darling," Yin drawled, "You look well."

She slid off her sunglasses revealing her perfectly arched brow. "Though I do hope you're taking proper care of yourself. Running a household of this size must be... quite the challenge. Isn't it, honey?"

Soomin's smile faltered but she quickly recovered, clasping her hands in front of her as she ushered them inside. "Of course, Aunt Yin. Everything is running smoothly, as always."

"Let's talk over tea," Soomin led Aunt Yin and Aunt Kin through the grand hall.

their heels clicking softly against the marble floors as they approached the back of the manor. The sitting room was a serene oasis—a place that Soomin had personally curated with care.

The room was filled with natural light that filtered through the large glass windows, which opened up to a view of the blooming garden outside. Wild vines climbed up the whitewashed walls, interwoven with soft pink and lavender flowers, their fragrance filling the air with a floral scent. The flowers spilt over from vases on the tables, create an aesthetically pleasing environment.

Yin and Kin paused for a moment, taking in the heavenly ambience.

"Oh, Soomin, this is simply divine," Aunt Kin murmured, her voice filled with surprise and admiration. She moved towards the nearest vase, gently brushing her fingers over the petals of a white lily.

"These flowers... the wild vines... It's like stepping into a dream."

Aunt Yin nodded in agreement as she gazed around the room. Soomin's chest swelled with pride.

Yin and Kin took their seats on the plush, cream-coloured sofas, their eyes still fixed on the vines that climbed the walls, twisting and turning.

"You have an eye for these things, Soomin," Kin remarked, crossing her legs as she settled into the soft cushions. "A rare talent."

Soomin smiled warmly, taking a seat opposite them. "Thank you, Kin. It's all for the family, to make sure you all feel comfortable when you're here."

Yin, reclining slightly, glanced out the window towards the garden beyond, where more flowers bloomed under the soft sunlight.

"It's perfect for today. Exactly what we needed."

Kin took her seat beside Yin, her eyes gleaming with mischief.

"Refreshing, yes. However, I do wonder how long it will last. Vines like these can be so... unpredictable. They tend to grow out of control if not handled properly. But I'm sure you've thought of that, have you?"

Soomin kept her voice even though her fingers tightened slightly on the armrest. "Of course, Kin. I'm very hands-on with the upkeep of this place. Nothing will grow out of control under my watch."

Yin and Kin exchanged a glance, the corners of their lips curling.

Yin raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching as if fighting back laughter. " But be careful, dear. Sometimes, when you try too hard to balance everything, it all comes crashing down."

※

The house helper walked towards the sitting area, her arms balancing a tray of flower tea and delicacies. Suddenly, her foot caught on the edge of a folded carpet. A sharp gasp escaped her as the tray began to tilt, the fragile cups wobbling. Just as she felt herself losing control, a hand grasped her arm, catching her before she could fall.

The helper blinked in surprise, her breath catching as she looked up, meeting the concerned doe-eyes of none other than the Kim family's bride, Jungkook.

Jungkook helped the house helper straighten the tray.

The house helper was ashamed and flustered from the near accident. She bowed slightly, her voice trembling, "T-thank you, Bride. I'm so sorry, I almost ruined everything."

"Are you alright?" Jungkook shook her head and asked gently, her voice soothing.

The housekeeper blinked, still shaken but grateful. "Oh, thank you. I'm fine now... I nearly dropped everything."

Jungkook glanced at the tray, then towards the sitting area where Soomin sat with two elderly ladies. Must be aunts, Jungkook thought. the two aunts were laughing softly among themselves.

"I'll help you carry it," Jungkook offered.

The housekeeper hesitated, clearly uncomfortable with the idea. "Oh no, Bride, I can manage. It's not proper for you to—"

Jungkook smiled sweetly, her eyes twinkling as she spoke softly, "Please, let me help. I insist."

"Well... if you insist," the housekeeper finally relented, smiling back.

Jungkook carefully took one side of the tray, balancing the weight as they moved together. The house helper stole glances at Jungkook, marvelling at her beauty and the kindness radiating from her.

Jungkook was lost in the beauty of the manor. Her eyes widened in awe as she looked at the flowers in the elegant vases.

This place is like a dream, she thought, her heart fluttering. It feels like a fairy tale with all these flowers!

I wish I could decorate my restaurant like this, Jungkook mused, her imagination running wild with ideas.

As they reached the sitting area, her eyes sparkled with innocent delight. She turned to the house helper wth a bright smile on her face.

"Everything is so beautiful here! I feel like I'm in a fairytale."

The helper smiled back, "It truly is a special place. The Kims take great care in keeping the manor beautiful."

Jungkook nodded, her eyes still shining as they approached the ladies.

Jungkook's mind wandered to Taehyung. She bit her lip, a cute pout forming as she thought,

How could this ice cube live in such a beautiful place and still be so stone-hearted?

She glanced around, the space was filled with vibrant flowers and a sweet fragrance. Doesn't he ever melt a little? I mean, how can someone resist these lovely scents?

"Maybe he needs a flower crown to soften him up!" She giggled at the mental image of Taehyung wearing a crown of daisies. Aww, he'd look so cute!

Seems like I have to become his sunshine!

They entered the sitting area and the sound of laughter came to a sudden halt the moment Jungkook stepped inside.

Soomin who was seated elegantly with her cousins, shot a sharp glance in Jungkook's direction. her expression tightening into disdain. Her lips pressed together in a hard line, the hate evident in her cold stare.

On the other hand, Aunt Yin and Aunt Kin turned their attention toward Jungkook with curiosity. Their eyes traced over the young beauty standing in the doorway, each of them intrigued by the beauty of the new face in the Kim manor.

Jungkook felt their stares but kept her composure, her heart fluttering slightly beneath her calm exterior. Her soft eyes met theirs briefly before she lowered them respectfully.

"Good morning," Jungkook greeted softly.

Aunt Yin tilted her head slightly, curiosity gleaming in her eyes as she exchanged a glance with Aunt Kin. They hadn't expected someone so young and lovely to be present in the Kim household.

Soomin's expression hardened but she said nothing as Jungkook gently set the tray down.

Aunt Yin finally spoke up, unable to hide her curiosity.

"And who might this be?" she asked, her eyes flickered from Jungkook to Soomin. "A new face in the manor, how interesting."

Soomin shifted slightly in her seat, she hesitated to answer. She forced a tight smile uncomfortable with the sudden attention on Jungkook.

"She's... well," Soomin began, her words faltering. She cleared her throat, her voice wavering as she continued. "She is Taehyung's sec---"

"She is my wife, Aunt Yin."

All eyes turned towards the doorway, where Taehyung stood tall. His sharp gaze met his aunts' as he stepped inside.

Jungkook's eyes widened slightly, her breath hitched for a second. Jungkook suddenly began to feel hot and her cheeks were on fire. Her cheeks flushed slightly as she glanced up at Taehyung.

Did he really just say that?

Jungkook mentally scolded herself for the heat creeping up her cheeks,

Why am I blushing like a new bride? She shook her head slightly, trying to regain her composure. But then a voice from the farthest corner of her mind spoke,

You 'actually' are a new bride, idiot!

She bit her lip, suppressing a smile at her silliness. Of course, I am! That's why I feel all fluttery and shy.

Aunt Kin and Aunt Yin blinked in surprise and they exchanged another glance. Aunt Yin's lips curved into a small, knowing smile.

Jungkook's heart raced as she felt their gazes scanning her but she managed to smile softly, her eyes stuck on the floor due to shyness.

"Ah, your wife," Aunt Kin repeated, her voice laced with intrigue. "Well, well. We weren't expecting that."

Soomin's face flushed in anger but she quickly schooled her expression, forcing another smile as she glanced between Taehyung and his aunts.

"Must be quite the love story," Aunt Kin chimed in, her voice dripping with sweetness as she leaned forward slightly. "Tell us, dear, how did you manage to melt our Taehyung's icy heart?"

I didn't even melt him! He's still as icy as ever, Jungkook thought.

Taehyung approached his aunts and offered a small bow, greeting them politely.

"Aunt Yin, Aunt Kin," he said, "It's good to see you both after such a long time."

Aunt Yin leaned back slightly, "Taehyung, You've grown more handsome since the last time we saw you."

Aunt Kin chuckled lightly, adjusting her scarf as she added, "Indeed. And now, a wife? You always were full of surprises, Taehyung."

Taehyung's eyes remained serious. "Life changes quickly," he replied.

"Jungkook and I married recently."

Aunt Yin glanced over at Jungkook, who stood quietly beside the housekeeper.

"Jungkook," she repeated, letting the name roll off her tongue with a curious tilt of her head. "She's quite the beauty, isn't she?"

Aunt Kin nodded in agreement, though her gaze was still probing. Soomin shifted uncomfortably as the conversation steered towards Jungkook. Aunt Kin noticed the sharp look Soomin had been casting toward Jungkook and leaned slightly toward Aunt Yin with a subtle smirk.

The two exchanged a knowing glance, their eyes sparkling to see a family drama.

Aunt Yin leaned forward slightly, her fingers delicately adjusting the pearl necklace around her neck as her eyes sparkled with mischief.

"Soomin, darling, it's quite a surprise. You didn't mention the wedding, and here we are, meeting the bride by accident," she said, her tone sugary but with an undeniable edge. "You used to keep us so well-informed. Busy, were you?"

Soomin's smile faltered but she quickly recovered, her voice tight as she replied, "It was a small family event, Yin. Nothing too elaborate."

Yin and Kin exchanged glances, their expressions shifting from mischief to genuine curiosity as they turned their attention fully to Jungkook.

"Oh, look at her," Kin said, leaning forward with a smirk. "Isn't she just the sweetest thing?"

Yin nodded enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling. "Absolutely! Such a lovely bride. So delicate and beautiful—like a flower in full bloom. I can already tell you'll fit right in with the family."

Jungkook felt her cheeks heat up, unsure how to respond to their compliments. "Thank you, but—"

Yin leaned closer, a teasing glint in her eye.

"Tell us, how did you and Taehyung meet?" Yin inquired, her tone genuine yet teasing.

"Oh, it...was quite unexpected," Jungkook replied softly, her nerves creeping in.

Yin's eyes sparkled with delight. "Love at first sight! Isn't it just magical?"

Kin said, "You know, dear, it looks like Taehyung has found his true match."

Jungkook managed a shy smile, glancing at Soomin again. The envy radiating from her was felt by Jungkook and it only added awkwardness to the moment.

By the end of the day, Yin and Kin were head over heels for Jungkook. They couldn't stop praising Jungkook as they admired her every gesture.

"I think she'll make an excellent addition to the Kims," Yin declared, almost dreamily. "Taehyung is lucky to have her."

Meanwhile, Soomin sat in silence, her frustration simmering just beneath the surface. The more the aunts gushed over Jungkook, the more Soomin's envy boiled.

This is my family, my position. Why is everyone so taken with Jungkook?

She clenched her fists, the realization hitting her that the spotlight had shifted away from her and she was now just a shadow in her own family.

Soomin rested on the chair on the balcony, her eyes closed as the cool night breeze brushed her face.

Suddenly, she felt a soft touch on her lower legs, a light caress that slowly grew into the comforting grip of two hands. Her lips curved into a small smile, immediately recognizing the familiar touch. It was him. The one person she always knew would find her in moments like these.

Soomin opened her eyes slowly, her smile widening as she looked down.

There he was—Taehyung, kneeling on the floor before her, her legs resting comfortably in his lap. His large hands cradled her ankles, fingers pressing gently into her skin trying to ease her tension.

He didn't say a word at first, his focus entirely on her legs, massaging them gently with slow movements.

For a moment, it felt like old times—like when Soomin had once believed she was the centre of his world before everything had changed before Jungkook had arrived.

Taehyung spoke quietly, breaking the silence between them. "It's been days since we've talked."

He kept his gaze on her legs as he massaged, not looking up. There was a deeper meaning behind the phrase. Soomin let out a soft sigh. She knew what he meant.

She had hurt him with her recent actions and she could see the disappointment in his eyes whenever their gazes met. he couldn't fully walk away from her. He was still her son and she was still his mother.

Taehyung paused for a moment, his hands still resting on her legs.

"I don't want things to stay like this, Mom."

Soomin opened her eyes fully, meeting his gaze. The hurt in his eyes was unmistakable and made her chest tighten. She didn't like to show weakness but it was hard to ignore the pain she had caused him.

"I know things are complicated," Taehyung continued, "but we can't keep pretending everything is fine. I don't want to keep choosing between you and what I believe is right." His words were filled with both frustration and a plea for understanding.

Soomin's pride kept her from responding immediately. She didn't want to admit fault. She leaned back in her chair opting to stay silent. Taehyung's hands resumed their gentle massage.

"I don't want to lose you," Taehyung added, his voice barely above a whisper. He finally met her gaze, his eyes filled with hurt and love. "But I also can't keep ignoring the way things are."

Soomin felt a lump in her throat, but her pride wouldn't let her show it. Instead, she sat there in silence, lost in their thoughts. The bond between them was strained, but not broken. Not yet.

After a long pause, Soomin sighed, her voice cold as she finally spoke, "You brought this on yourself, Taehyung." Her tone was clipped, defensive. "By bringing her into this house, you invited all this trouble. Don't think you can shift the blame onto me."

Taehyung's hands halted for a moment before resuming their massage. His expression hardened, the softness in his gaze fading slightly. "This isn't just about Jungkook, Mom. You know that."

Soomin's lips tightened, unwilling to give in. "She's the root of all this. You chose her, and now you expect me to welcome her like nothing's happened?"

Taehyung's jaw clenched but he didn't respond immediately. Instead, he let out a deep breath, his hands still moving over her legs with the same tender care, despite the tension between them. her words settled between them like a heavy cloud.

The silence was thick, both of them trapped in unspoken emotions, unwilling to completely bridge the gap that had grown between them. Soomin's heart was heavy, but her pride remained stronger than her guilt. At least for now.

Soomin stood up abruptly, brushing Taehyung's hands away from her legs. Her voice was edged with bitterness, cut through the tense silence between them.

"Go to your wife," she spat, her gaze cold and unwavering. "She must be waiting for you in bed."

The words dripped with contempt and her eyes flashed with resentment and pain. There was a finality in her tone dismissing him from both her presence and, in a way, her heart. It wasn't just about the argument—they both knew it ran deeper than that.

Taehyung remained still for a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly. He exhaled slowly, his shoulders tensing as he absorbed her words. But instead of responding with anger, he stood up calmly, meeting her gaze.

"This is why we keep drifting further apart," he said quietly, "You keep pushing me away."

Soomin's face remained impassive but her hands clenched at her sides, betraying her inner turmoil. She refused to let herself be vulnerable, not now.

"Goodnight, Mom," Taehyung added softly.

Soomin turned on her heel and she walked away from the balcony, leaving Taehyung standing alone in the cool night air. The sound of her footsteps faded into the manor, swallowed by the silence that followed.

Taehyung remained still, his gaze lifting toward the moon that hung high in the dark sky. The celestial body's soft glow casts a silver light over the garden below. His hands rested at his sides, clenched into quiet fists.

The moonlight reflected in his eyes and within him, a storm of emotions churned. The bitterness in Soomin's words still echoed in his mind, the coldness she harboured toward him.

He exhaled slowly and tilted his head back slightly, letting the night breeze brush against his face. It felt like the vastness of the night sky was mocking him—peaceful and beautiful while he stood on the balcony, burdened by the tangled mess of emotions that came with being both a son and a husband.

A sudden crash echoed through the night. Taehyung's head snapped toward the source of the sound, his brows furrowing in concern.

His eyes darted to the wall, where a faint shadow flickered against the stone surface. It shifted and moved, too quick and uncertain to make out clearly.

Taehyung stepped forward, trying to discern who or what it was. The crash had come from inside, possibly from the direction of the kitchen or the sitting room. Was it one of the house helpers? Or—

His mind immediately went to Jungkook. Had something happened to her?

Without wasting another moment, he moved swiftly toward the shadowed corridor.