🥀 𝟐𝟐. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐭 𝐎𝐟 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐬

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Jungkook dolled herself in a beautiful attire. Her Doe eyes mirrored the galaxies, with specks of warmth that sparkled like constellations. The morning light caressed her features, emphasizing her delicate curves and her smile.

"Today feels like a dream," Jungkook whispered, glancing at the sleeping male through the mirror.

The beauty and innocence of Jungkook extended beyond the outward allure, confining a spirit that radiated kindness, resilience, and an undeniable charm that left a lasting impression on those around her.

Jungkook stepped out of her room, gently closing the door to avoid disturbing Taehyung's peaceful slumber. The hallway was bathed in the soft glow of morning light as she made her way silently. Entering the kitchen, she found the maids immersed in their tasks, busy preparing the hefty breakfast.

"Good morning, everyone!" Jungkook broke the silence by wishing them.

The maids looked at the new figure who was smiling widely, " Good Morning, Kims bride,"

"Is there anything I can help with?" younger asked stepping towards the stove, trying to hide her flushed cheeks from other's eyes.

" You are the new bride. You don't need to worry about anything. We've got it covered." the head maid came forward and declined politely.

Jungkook insisted showing his sparkling eyes , "I want to contribute. It would mean a lot to me. Please, let me help. Pretty please?"

The maids looked at each other and smiled at the New bride's request, " How can we ignore Sire Taehyung's wife's request? You can join us."

Jungkook's eyes sparkled with excitement as the maids smiled at her request. "Thank you!" she exclaimed, clapping her hands together.

The head maid gestured toward a set of fresh vegetables laid out on the counter. "You can help chop these. Just be careful with the knife."

Jungkook nodded eagerly, pulling her hair back into a loose bun to keep it out of her face. As she started chopping, she felt a sense of warmth and belonging envelop her. The rhythmic sound of the knife against the cutting board mixed with the soft chatter of the maids, creating a cosy atmosphere.

"Do you often cook?" one of the younger maids asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Not really," Jungkook admitted with a shy smile. "But I love trying new things."

Jungkook's cooking skills shine as she prepares the food. The chopping of fresh fruits and vegetables filled the Kitchen.

Grandma Kim and Jimin were greeted with the aroma of the dishes as soon as they stepped into the side kitchen.

Jungkook who was focused on decorating the dish greeted them with a warm smile, " Good morning Grandma and Jimin."

Grandma Kim chuckled, "Ah, the aroma brought me here. Jungkook, my dear,"

Jungkook replied, "Thank you, Grandma. I wanted to make it special."

"O my! Is this real? I'm going to eat the food made by my best friend. Huh? As far as I remember you used to make the worst food." Jimin exclaimed, she held Jungkook's shoulder tightly and shook her.

Jungkook removed the arms and exclaimed in the same manner, "You double-face human. In those times, you used to eat my handmade food. And now you are front bitching about my food in front of me. The audacity! Fine, don't eat from today onwards,"

The angry bunny moved away and continued her work, huffing loudly which clearly showed her anger.

Jimin, handing over chopped vegetables, grinned teasingly, "You again fell into my trap. Now dont become a sulky bunny. You're doing amazing. I can't wait to taste everything."

Grandma Kim smiled at the bickering duo and shared a memory, "Taehyung's grandfather used to say, 'Cooking is an art, and every meal tells a story.' Keep that spirit alive, dear."

Jungkook nodded, absorbing the wisdom, "I will, Grandma. It's an honour to carry on those traditions."

Jungkook carefully arranges the dishes on the dining table. Grandma Kim and Jimin hover nearby, their eyes reflecting excitement. The dining room was filled with an inviting fragrance of prepared dishes.

The family members gradually gather around the table, drawn by the enticing aroma of Jungkook's feast.

Finally, with a door creaking open, Taehyung entered the room.

Jungkook's eyes met Taehyung's as he stepped into the room, dressed in formals.

Taehyung paused at the doorway, his eyes locking with Jungkook's for a brief second before he quickly looked away. She looked completely at ease, her hair loosely tied with a few strands falling messily across her face. There was a small smudge of something—flour?—on her cheeks.

Jungkook looked up from her task and smiled awkwardly, her hand instinctively wiping at her cheek, only making the smear worse.

Taehyung tore his gaze away and walked to his seat, adjusting his tie. He tried to focus on his thoughts but the image of Jungkook lingered in his mind.

Jungkook quietly sat beside him, Taehyung reached into his pocket and pulled out a neatly folded handkerchief. Without a word, he offered it to her, his expression unreadable.

Jungkook blinked, her confusion evident as she looked at the handkerchief and then back at Taehyung.

"Why...?" she started to ask, but Taehyung interrupted her in his calm voice.

"Your cheek," he gestured briefly toward her face. "It's smudged with something."

Realization dawned on her and she let out a soft "Oh!" in surprise. Feeling a bit embarrassed, Jungkook quickly took the handkerchief from him.

She dabbed at the smear on her cheek, her cheeks flushing in embarrassment while Taehyung watched her with an unreadable expression.

"Hyung, do you know who made today's breakfast?" Jimin smirked and threw a teasing wink at a shocked jungkook.

Taehyung who was about to take a bite stopped, "who?" he asked nonchalantly.

"Your dear wife,"

Jimin's teasing answer added a light-hearted atmosphere to the room. Jungkook stole a glance at Taehyung, her eyes showing nervousness and her red lips were being chewed by the bunny teeth.

Taehyung paused for a moment. Then, with a subtle smirk, he looked at Jungkook and replied, "It's good,"

Jungkook's cheeks flushed with shyness and the breakfast table was filled with laughter and awws of other family members.

The Kim family finishes their breakfast, and a sense of happiness fills the room. The delightful collection of dishes has been savoured and the warmth of shared moments lingers.

"I'm going to the office," Taehyung said and he moved out of the hall after greeting everyone.

With a gentle touch on Taehyung's arm, Jungkook stops him just as he's about to head to the office. She removed her hand when she got the attention.

"Mr Kim, um, I'd like to visit my mother's house today. There are some important documents and other things which I want to bring," Jungkook requested.

"Sure, come with me," he replied.

• ────── ✾ ────── •

The car rolled to a stop outside Jungkook's mother's house, the engine's hum fading into the quiet neighbourhood. Taehyung's gaze examined the familiar façade, his stoic expression revealing little.

Jungkook fidgeted nervously, glancing at Taehyung before whispering, "I won't be long, just want to say hi and catch up."

Taehyung merely nodded, unlocking the car door. Jungkook stepped out, the door closing with a soft thud. The sunny warm air surrounded her as she walked up the familiar path, leaving Taehyung alone in the car, his thoughts hidden behind the tinted windows.

Kara opened the door, Her eyes widened in surprise as they fell upon Jungkook, who stood there, adorned in an elegant outfit that spoke of luxury and wealth.

Jungkook was still angry over the forced marriage to Taehyung and met her mother's look with a guarded expression.

A slight hint of greed danced in Kara's eyes as she secretly checked out the luxurious attire her daughter wore. The silk fabric and sparkling accessories seemed to captivate her attention more than the person wearing them. However, Kara kept her thoughts locked behind a composed exterior, the greed hidden beneath a mask of motherly warmth.

"Jungkook, my daughter," As Kara extended her arms for a welcoming hug, Jungkook subtly stepped back. She created a physical distance that mirrored the emotional one between them.

"I'm just here to pick up some documents, Mom," Jungkook stated, her tone cold and detached.

The hug that hung in the air broke up into an awkward pause, leaving tension between mother and daughter. Kara, recovering quickly, "My daughter, won't you hug your mother? Is my baby angry? my baby changed after marriage. Are they treating you well?"

Jungkook didn't bother to reply. She went to her room and packed her essential belongings.

The older woman held jungkook's hands in hers, Kara's expression softened as she spoke, "Jungkook, we need to talk. I know things have been difficult, but what I had done was best in that situation. The marriage, the decisions— they were for your happiness."

Jungkook halted as she listened quietly and hurt was evident in her eyes, "My happiness? Huh?" she whispered.

Kara opened her mouth to respond but Jungkook cut her off.

"You didn't even ask me how I felt! You just assumed I'd be happy because I'm wearing this... this luxurious dress!" She gestured at her attire, the silk fabric feeling like a shackle rather than a material of elegance.

Kara's face faltered but she quickly regained her composure. "I wanted to secure your future, Jungkook. This is the best life you can have! You're married to Taehyung Kim!"

Jungkook bitterly chuckled, a humourless sound that barely masked her hurt. "This is who you are, Ms. Jeon. It's always about money for you. Just four days ago, I was in danger and did you even care? No! You think I'm like you—only caring about money!"

Kara's face colour drained from her cheeks as she opened her mouth to protest. "Jungkook, that's not—"

"Not what? Not true?" Jungkook interrupted, her voice rising. "You think I'm happy just because I wear fancy clothes and sleep in a mansion? You don't see me, Mom! You see a life you wish you had and you're projecting it onto me!"

Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes but she refused to let them fall. "You've made me feel like a trophy rather than your daughter. I'm not a pawn in your game! I want to be loved for who I am."

Kara flinched at her words, pain flashing across her face. "I just wanted to give you a better life! I thought I was doing what was best!"

Jungkook shook her head, frustration boiling over. "A better life? Or your version of a better life?"

"Jungkook—"

"No, let me finish!" Jungkook interrupted her heart racing. "I've spent too long feeling trapped by your expectations, by how you judge every decision I make."

"Jungkook, my dear, try to understand, whatever I did was for you, my life, I chose to marry you to Sangwoon because I care for you,"

"No, you don't!" Jungkook shot back, "You don't understand me at all! This isn't about the riches, care or the title—it's about my life and my choices! I never wanted this!"

The silence that followed was heavy, the air thick with unspoken words. Jungkook wiped her tears and looked into her mother's eyes, which were seething in anger and then Kara roared.

"Look, look, how your tongue is running like the fastest scissor, how much cost had they paid that you desperately defending them, isn't that pathetic? Jungkookie,"

Jungkook felt her world stop, the ground was having an apocalypse, which made her stumble back in her step, she bitterly chuckled and snickered and said.

"See, this is what you are, Ms Jeon, " Jungkook fiercely looked into her eyes and scowled, "This is what your mentality is, Money, it is always MONEY, everything for you is about money, even now, I was at the moment of life and death four days ago, did you even bothered to know my where about? No! Because Kim Jungkook is living in the grandeur rooms of a beautiful Kim Mansion, so everything is fine because you thought that I am like you, always money, money and money!"

Jungkook yelled at Kara who was flaming in anger.

Kara opened her venomous mouth and spat," You are taunting me about money, see what money has done to you, you are defending a stranger in front of her mother, who picked you up from the river bank, just to see this day, then, I should have ignored your cries and went on my works, bcz you are ungrateful,"

Jungkook laughed loudly with tears steaming from her crimson eyes, it was a situation that no one wished for, "Yes, Yes Ms Jeon I am ungrateful right? That way when I clearly said that I was working in a company and would get my salary soon, did you stop there? NO! Bcz you were ungrateful there, you were begging- No, manipulating ME to dance in front of hundreds of people just for WHAT? MONEY. You are the ungrateful one, I was just a pawn in your money-making thing."

Jungkook's voice cracked as she poured her heart out, each word laced with years of pain and resentment. Her tears continued to flow, but she didn't bother wiping them away. Instead, she stood her ground, glaring at Kara with disbelief and anger.

"Yes, Ms. Jeon, you should've let me drown that day because at least I would've been free from all this!" Jungkook's voice trembled but grew louder with each word.

"You didn't save me out of love—you saved me because you saw a tool you could use! A daughter you could mould into someone to parade around, to make money off of. But you know what? I'm done being that pawn! I am not the girl who is desperate for your approval anymore!"

Kara chuckled and laughed, her laugh was utterly manic and the laughter grew and grew louder, as she was trying to convey the depth of her emotions, tears rolled down her eyes that reddish bcz of anger, rage, and fury that seethed inside her, she glared Jungkook with her reddish orbs like a witch that was disbanded by a mutiny.

She breathed heavily and bore her gaze on Jungkook's soul.

"Kim Taehyung, that's the name over you are flying so high, if I tell him the sickening reality of yours? What will happen? Dear Jungkook,"

Kara smiled maniacally, her smile was so sick that it dripped bitterness toward Jungkook. "Will he believe you? Will he believe the daughter of a courtesan?"

"Yes,"

All it took was one word to drop the manic behaviour, Kara, gazed at her with a perplexed look and Jungkook continued, "Yes, he will believe in me, cause I am his wife, Kim Taehyung is not some random billionaire, with a gross attitude and shabby behaviour, he is unique like the northern star, his aura is reserved, but one sight of a person is enough for him to 'judge' and Kim Taehyung never miss a single detail of a person, one gaze and its all over, and dear mother, he will surely believe me, the courtesan's daughter, but not the courtesan,"

Kara's expression twisted in disbelief, her eyes narrowing as Jungkook's confidence shone through the tears.

"You think he'll choose you over me? Over everything I've sacrificed for you? You're a fool, Jungkook! You don't know how the world works."

Jungkook straightened her back, her chin raised defiantly. "I may be a fool in your eyes but I know who I am. I know what I deserve. Mr kim sees me for more than my past. He sees my heart, my spirit—things you never bothered to look for."

Kara took a step closer, her voice low and threatening. "You think he'll protect you? When the truth comes out, what will he think of you? You, who were saved from the river by a woman who was tainted, her world was tainted, she was tainted?"

"you think you have not tainted me, you have tainted me by your deeds, your manipulation, by your sweet words, Ara always warned me about my future and I will always be thankful to Kim Taehyung, who saved me from tainting myself," Jungkook shot back, her voice steady.

doubt crossed Kara's face but she quickly masked it with anger. "You're naive, Jungkook. You don't know the consequences of your words. If I tell him about your past—"

"Then do it," Jungkook interrupted, her heart pounding with determination. "Do it and see what happens. I'm not ashamed of where I came from and won't let your darkness define me."

Kara's laughter faded, replaced by a chilling silence. She realized her words had lost their power against Jungkook's unwavering resolve.

"Fine," she said, her voice dripping with disdain.

"Live in your fantasy. But remember, I warned you. One day, he'll see you for what you truly are."

Jungkook met her gaze, unwavering. "And when that day comes, I will stand tall and face whatever comes my way. I refuse to let your bitterness consume me any longer."

"Shall we go, Mrs. Kim?"

Jungkook's breath hitched at the sound of a deep voice.

Both women turned their heads to find Taehyung lounging on the couch.

Taehyung sat on the coffee-coloured couch, his posture exuding confidence as he man-spread comfortably. One leg was bent casually over his thigh, the other stretched out, taking up space. His body relaxed against the soft cushions, one hand draped over the back of the couch while the other idly twirled his phone between his fingers, the casual movement emphasizing his dominance.

Kara's surprise was evident, her confidence stuttering under Taehyung's piercing stare.

"What are you doing here?" she snapped, trying to regain control.

Taehyung didn't even flinch. Instead, Taehyung leaned forward slightly, his posture shifting to a more bold posture.

"Just checking in on my wife," he said smoothly, the power in his voice sending shivers down Jungkook's spine.

Jungkook couldn't help but stare at Taehyung, her heart racing at the sight of him so effortlessly controlling the room. There was something undeniably attractive about him, how he was unfazed by Kara's hostility.

Taehyung's gaze shifted to her, catching her eyes with a smirk playing on his lips. He looked completely unfazed. The butterflies in Jungkook's stomach went into overdrive.

Kara stood before him, her expression showed disbelief and irritation. She crossed her arms tightly across her chest, trying to assert her authority by seeing his nonchalance.

"Do you really think this is appropriate?"  Kara snapped, her voice laced with disdain.

"Relax, Mrs. Jeon," Taehyung replied, "I'm just here to support my wife. No need for drama."

Taehyung leaned back slightly, stretching his arm along the back of the couch and Jungkook's breath hitched at the sight. He looked so comfortable, so in control and it made her feel safe.

"Support?" Kara scoffed, crossing her arms defiantly. "What do you know about support?"

"Hmmm, Support?" Taehyung tilted his head slightly, as if considering her words, though there was no real challenge in his eyes—just quiet confidence. Without moving an inch, he made her presence feel insignificant.

"Support comes in different forms. Sometimes it's quiet. Sometimes it's just being there." He paused, daring her to question him further. "But you wouldn't understand that."

The way he said it, without raising his voice made his words land harder. Kara's jaw clenched but Taehyung remained unmoved.

Taehyung planted his feet firmly on the ground, the click sound of his polished shoes filled the room. He stood up and strode confidently over to Jungkook.

Reaching Jungkook, Taehyung stopped, standing tall in front of her. His eyes, when they met Jungkook's, softened in a way that made her heart ache.

Without a word, he gently took her hand in his, his warm touch instantly calming the storm of emotions swirling inside her. His thumb brushed lightly over her knuckles, a silent gesture of assurance.

Jungkook's gaze lowered and a tear she hadn't even realized she was holding back slid down her cheek. It was a tear of relief, of vulnerability, and as it dropped, it fell onto their joined hands. The small drop glistened against Taehyung's hand before sinking into their intertwined fingers, sealing something sacred between them.

Taehyung's eyes flicked to the tear when he felt a cool sensation, his expression barely changing, but he tightened his grip on her hand—protective, strong and unwavering. He then turned his gaze toward Kara, his face now void of softness, replaced with a calm authority.

Taehyung's voice dropped to an octave, his eyes never leaving Kara.

"You may have given her life but I'm the one who's going to ensure Jungkook lives it fully—without your interference."

Kara's expression faltered, disbelief flashing in her eyes as her mouth parted in shock.

Jungkook felt her heart swell at his fierce declaration. Her fingers tightened slightly in his and a single tear escaped, dropping onto their joined hands. Again!

Taehyung's gaze shifted to Jungkook, softening just a fraction as he leaned slightly toward her.

"Are you ready to leave?"

Jungkook nodded. With Taehyung by her side, she felt the security that had been missing.

Taehyung and Jungkook turned to leave, he glanced back at Kara with a confident smirk. "Thanks for your insights, Mrs. Jeon," he said, his tone slightly teasing,

"But I think we'll manage just fine without your 'guidance.'"

Jungkook loved how effortlessly Taehyung maintained his dominance while still being playful. With a firm grip, Taehyung guided Jungkook toward the door.

Jungkook's eyes were drawn to his broad back, watching how he moved as if the world couldn't touch him. Her gaze slowly drifted down to their hands, fingers intertwined like they had always belonged together. his warm touch sent a thrill through her and before she realized it, a smile bloomed on her face.

Their joined hands were more than just a simple gesture—it was a silent promise, a connection that made her feel protected and cherished.

As they left, Taehyung threw one final glance over his shoulder, his smirk widening slightly.

"Good luck finding happiness in your way, Kara. You might need it."

His words were delivered so casually that it felt like a challenge wrapped in a farewell.

•————-🥀—————•

In a secluded corner of the Mystic Forest, there is a sacred land filled with soft light. Tall trees with shimmering leaves surround the area, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. Colourful flowers bloom everywhere, their sweet scents mingling in the air. Crystal-clear streams wind through the landscape, sparkling like diamonds under the sun.

In this magical place, ethereal beings like angels glide gracefully, their delicate wings glistening with a soft glow. They move singing melodies that echo like whispers of peace.

Only Alara can enter this beautiful land because it is protected by ancient magic. No evil being can step inside; the air itself seems to shimmer with purity, keeping darkness at bay.

It is a sanctuary of light and hope, where only those with pure hearts can wander.

The sacred land was guarded by the barren tree. It becomes a place where the boundaries between the earthly and the ethereal stand upright, inviting those who dare to explore the secrets that lie within.

Ash Jinn and Yuna stood outside the heavenly land gazing at the beautiful view and the barren tree. its twisted branches reaching towards the sky. As they gazed upon it, a shared understanding passed between them.

"The barren tree represents the life of Taehyung and how lonely he is," Ash Jinn spoke, "It's said to be a sign of the blooming love between Taehyung and Jungkook."

Yuna nodded in agreement. She took a step forward, eager to enter the sacred land. But as soon as her foot touched the boundary, an invisible current surged against her, pushing her back with surprising force.

She stumbled, her heart racing as she regained her balance. Confusion washed over her. "What just happened?" she asked, glancing at Ash, who stood by her side with a look of concern.

"The tree must be protecting the sacred land," she replied, his gaze fixed on the barren branches. "Only those truly worthy can pass through."

"Only Alara can step inside this land," Ash said.

"Legend says that when every flower on this tree blooms, the bond between them will grow so powerful that even Master Jinn won't be able to escape the lamp. Until that moment arrives, the Mystic Forest will stand guard over this love, and the tree will remain a silent witness to their connection—proof of a love that defies all boundaries."

The duo observed the barren tree. The Mystic Forest is waiting for the day when the barren branches will burst into a kaleidoscope of colours, signalling a love that even the mystical beings themselves would be bound by its enchantment.

Ash Jinn and Yuna held their hands together and their ethereal forms shimmering with dreadful energy. A dark alliance had formed as they developed a supernatural plan to disrupt the path of Taehyung and Jungkook's blooming love.

Ash Jinn suggested, "We will incorporate illusions and illusions within illusions. Misinterpret their perceptions, making each believe that they walk a divergent path."

Yuna added with a sly grin,

"A play of dreams and nightmares. They shall be lost in a maze of their fears and desires, unaware that the threads of their destinies are being manipulated."

"Time itself shall become our supporter. We'll raise disputes, creating moments of confusion and uncertainty. Their journey together will be tainted by echoes of what could have been."

"And this is our promise,
promise to the dark world,
the Master Jinn."

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .*:☆ﾟ. ───

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