🥀  𝟑𝟗. 𝐖𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠

Enjoy

Taehyung's footsteps echoed softly in the quiet of their room as he entered, a box of chocolates in hand for his wife to lift her mood. However, the sight of the absence of his wife immediately brought a frown across his face. He glanced around the room, his concern deepening with each passing second as he found no trace of her presence.

"Mrs kim?" he called out, his voice filled with worry as he set the box of chocolates down on the table. He moved further into the room, checking each corner and scanning for any clue of where she might have gone.

Taehyung checked the bathroom first, finding it empty. He moved quietly towards the closet, feeling a mix of tension.

Approaching the closet door, he heard the faint sound of soft sobbing. His heart sank, worry gnawing at him as he gently pushed open the door.

Inside, Jungkook sat on the floor, her face buried in her hands, shoulders shaking with quiet sobs. Taehyung's heart clenched at the sight, his concern deepening as he knelt beside her.

She didn't look up, her body trembling slightly with the weight of her emotions. Taehyung's heart ached at the sight, wishing he could take away her pain and sadness.

"Mrs. Kim," he whispered, gently keeping his hand on her shoulder.

She flinched slightly at his touch, her body tensing with suppressed emotion. Slowly, she lifted her head, tear-streaked cheeks and watery eyes revealing the depth of her pain. Taehyung's heart ached even more as he saw her like this, wanting desperately to comfort her.

Jungkook sniffled, wiping at her tears with the back of her hand. She looked up at him, her gaze filled with a mixture of sadness and gratitude. Without a word, she leaned into his touch, seeking solace in his presence.

Taehyung wrapped his arms around her gently, pulling her close. She rested her head against his chest, her body shaking with silent sobs. He held her tightly, offering her the silent comfort she needed in that moment of vulnerability.

They stayed like that for a while, the only sound in the closet the quiet rhythm of their breathing and Jungkook's occasional sniffles. Taehyung continued to hold her, his hand gently rubbing her back, whispering soothing words of reassurance until she was ready to speak.

"I can't do anything properly," she confessed, her words choked with tears. "I feel like I'm going to destroy everything. I can't even do magic."
The fragments of the past flickered before her—her mother's disapproving gaze, the sharp words that cut deep into her fragile heart.

"Why can't you listen to me? Always causing trouble..."

"You'll never succeed with that attitude, Jungkook."

"Do you even understand how much you disappoint me?"

"Jungkook, don't forget your place," her mother's voice cut through the air like a sharp knife. "You're destined to become a courtesan. You must learn to behave accordingly if you ever want to succeed there."

"You'll never get to anything if you keep this up, Jungkook," her mother's voice echoed in her mind, tinged with disappointment.

"You're useless... not good enough to live... everyone will leave you."

"Useless, I shouldn't have picked you up from the river,"

"I'm useless," Jungkook whispered hoarsely, the weight of years of self-doubt and criticism echoing in her voice. "Not good enough to live... everyone will leave... please, no..."

Taehyung held her gently, his heart breaking at the pain etched on her face. Hearing her raw suffering, he felt an overwhelming urge to protect her from the ghosts of her past.

"You're not useless," Taehyung murmured, brushing a stray tear from her cheek. "You're strong, Jungkook. You've survived so much."

Jungkook shook her head, her fingers clutching at the fabric of his shirt. "I try... but I keep failing," she confessed, her voice trembling with emotion.

"You're not alone," Taehyung assured her, his arms tightening around her in a reassuring embrace. "I'm here with you. I'm here,"

"You are here," Jungkook mumbled like a child asking for reassurance.

Taehyung nodded, cupping her face in his hands, he gently slid the black locks from the forehead.

"Yes, always," he said, his voice soft but firm. "You are capable of so much more than you realize."

Jungkook looked up at him, her eyes searching his face for reassurance. "But what if I never get it right?" she whispered, her voice filled with uncertainty.

"Everyone makes mistakes, and learning magic is no different. It takes time and practice, but I have faith in you. You have a kind heart and a resilient spirit, and that's what matters most."

"But what if—,"

"Then we'll keep trying until you do. I'll be right here by your side, every step of the way. Together, we can overcome any obstacle."

Jungkook's shoulders relaxed slightly as she leaned into Taehyung's embrace. His arms wrapped around her, strong and reassuring, and she felt his heart beat against her ear.

Jungkook closed her eyes, allowing his presence to soothe her mind. Her breathing steadied, the tension in her muscles slowly melting away. Taehyung's gentle touch made her feel safe.

She nestled closer to him, finding solace in the rise and fall of his chest. His fingers stroked her hair softly. Jungkook's racing thoughts began to quiet, replaced by a growing belief in herself.

"Thank you! I don't know what I would do without you," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Taehyung tightened his hold on her, his presence a silent commitment that he would always be there for her. After a few moments, Taehyung shifted slightly, his gaze tender as he looked down at her.

"You need to rest," he murmured.

Taehyung stood up with Jungkook. She stumbled a little, her legs shaky from the exhaustion of her emotional outburst. Without a moment's hesitation, Taehyung bent down and scooped her up into his arms, lifting her in a bridal style. Jungkook instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck, her head resting against his shoulder as she closed her eyes, seeking relief in his embrace.

The firmness of his hold sent a fluttering sensation through Jungkook's heart. Her pulse quickened, not from fear, but from the warmth and security of being so close to him. She could feel his heartbeat, strong and steady, echoing against her cheek, and it brought a sense of calm she hadn't felt in a long time. Taehyung's eyes softened as he looked down at her, noticing the way her lashes brushed against her cheeks and the slight curve of her lips as she found comfort in his presence. She nestled closer, her fingers lightly playing with the fabric of his shirt.

Reaching the bed, Taehyung gently laid her down on the soft sheets. Jungkook's eyes fluttered open and the remaining tear rolled out. Taehyung gently wiped it away, his touch soft and comforting. Jungkook managed a small smile, her eyes filled with gratitude.

The peaceful moment was interrupted by the ringing of Taehyung's phone. He sighed softly, his gaze stayed on Jungkook before he stood up to answer the call. Jungkook's eyes followed him as he moved to the side, his voice low and serious as he spoke into the phone.

While Taehyung's conversation continued, Jungkook's eyes wandered around the room and halted when she spotted a box of chocolates on the nearby table. Her eyes lit up with a childlike excitement, momentarily forgetting her worries.

"Are those for me?" she thought.

Jungkook tried to get his attention without interrupting his call. She tugged gently at his shirt, her small fingers grabbing the fabric with a soft touch. When he turned to look at her, she pointed eagerly at the chocolates with her finger, her eyes wide and sparkling with excitement. A soft smile curved her lips, her cheeks slightly flushed from excitement, forgetting the insecurities in which she had drowned a few moments ago.

With a nod, Taehyung quickly walked over, picked up the box of chocolates, and handed it to her. Jungkook's face lit up with pure delight as she took the box, her fingers hurriedly opening it. She glanced up at him with thankfulness, her expression so adorable that it warmed his heart.

Taehyung got busy with a call and his attention was diverted. Jungkook, finding a good opportunity, eagerly began to eat the chocolates, her eyes flicking up to Taehyung now and then. With each bite, a small smile played on her lips as she enjoyed the sweet treat.

"Do you want to get cavities?" Taehyung asked, noticing her indulgence as he ended the call.

"But it's only five," Jungkook pouted, her lower lip jutting out adorably.

"Exactly. Now sleep," Taehyung insisted, his tone firm as he raised an eyebrow, trying to maintain a stern expression.

"Am I a kid or what?" Jungkook spoke, narrowing her eyes at her husband.

"You do act like one," Taehyung replied, reaching to take the box away.

Jungkook whined, clutching the chocolates tighter. Taehyung leaned forward, attempting to take the box gently from her grasp. Taehyung and Jungkook lay on the bed, they were so engrossed in each other, their faces close, their breaths mingling, that they didn't notice the figure standing at the doorway.

Yuna stood at the door, gritting her teeth. She didn't like seeing Taehyung and Jungkook on the bed, looking so comfortable and domestic. Their intimate position only seemed to worsen her irritation. The woman clutched a tray of juice, her eyes narrowing in anger. Her hands tightened around the tray, knuckles turning white with the intensity of her grip.

She cleared her throat loudly, cutting through the intimate atmosphere like a sharp knife. Taehyung frowned and turned to look at the source of the sound. His face immediately hardened when he saw Yuna standing there.

He quickly stood up. Jungkook too stood up from the bed, her movements. She moved behind Taehyung, clutching his shirt tightly from the back in a possessive grip. Her fingers curled around the fabric. The chocolates long forgotten.

Taehyung turned slightly to look at Yuna, surprised by the audacity to come into their room at his late hour of the night.

"Yuna," he acknowledged curtly, his tone cold.

Yuna began once she got attention, "Taehyung, I brought something for you—

But Taehyung's voice cut through her sweet words, "I think you should learn some manners. Don't you know one should knock on the door before entering someone's room, especially a married couple's room?"

Yuna's face twisted with anger, but she quickly hid it with a tight smile. "I apologize if I interrupted anything," she said, although her tone suggested otherwise.

Taehyung's eyes remained cold, his posture protective, "Your apology is noted. Now, if you don't mind, we'd like some privacy. Why are you here?"

Yuna replied timidly, acting as if she was scared of Taehyung. "Soomin's aunt asked me to make juice for her. So I made it, but some extra is left, so I thought to give you."

"Thank you but I don't want it," Taehyung spoke gazing at the juice and then at the woman who held it.

"But taehyung, I made it with care," Yuna spoke coming closer to him.

"He doesn't consume sugar after 8 pm," Jungkook interjected from behind, her voice calm but laced with a subtle warning. She stood confidently, her arms crossed as she observed Yuna pressuring Taehyung.

Yuna's expression darkened, but she gave in, reluctantly accepting Jungkook's explanation.

"Oh, I'm sorry," Yuna stuttered, her tone tinged with embarrassment, "I didn't know about it—"

"That's the difference between a wife and others, Yuna," Jungkook cut her off with a smirk, her voice was laced with a slight superiority. When She emphasized the word "wife," her gaze was steady and confident.

"I know his preferences better than anyone."

"Sorry, I thought it would be helpful," Yuna mumbled slowly, trying to get sympathy from Taehyung.

From behind Taehyung, Jungkook rolled her eyes, barely able to suppress her irritation. "As if your gestures are appreciable," she mumbled, loud enough for everyone in the room to hear.

Taehyung noticed Jungkook's reaction and resisted keeping a straight face. He turned his attention back to Yuna. "Thank you for the juice, but next time, please knock before entering."

Yuna fumed in anger, her face turning red. "Taehyung, did you hear what she just said? Are you going to let her speak to me like that?"

Taehyung's expression hardened even more. "Yes, I heard her. And frankly, Yuna, considering the way you've been acting, she's right. Now, if you truly want to be helpful, you should respect our space and privacy."

Yuna's eyes widened in shock. "But I was only trying to—"

"To what?" Taehyung interrupted, his voice harsh, "To intrude? To create unnecessary drama? We don't need that, Yuna. What we need is for you to respect our boundaries."

Yuna opened her mouth to protest, but Taehyung's unwavering gaze silenced her. Defeated, she turned on her heel and stormed out of the room, the door slamming shut behind her.

Taehyung turned back to look at his wife and found her angrily eating the leftover chocolates. Her brows were furrowed, and she was mumbling under her breath, her words filled with irritation.

"I can't believe she dared to come in here with that juice," Jungkook muttered to herself, a hint of annoyance in her voice. "Doesn't she understand boundaries? Ugh, some people just don't get it."

Taehyung's expression softened as he spoke to Jungkook, "Wow, witty responses and someone was being a crybaby a few hours back."

Jungkook's cheeks flushed with a rosy hue as she glanced at Taehyung, feeling a warmth spread through her chest at his playful remark. She shyly averted her gaze, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips, her heart fluttering with affection for her husband. But Jungkook joked to dismiss the heat on her cheeks.

In her playful tone, she spoke, "Who said I was crying? I was just cleansing my eyes with NaCl and H2O."

Her words carried mischief as she glanced at Taehyung, a playful twinkle in her eye, teasing him with her witty response.

With a shake of his head, he admitted defeat, acknowledging with amusement that he could never quite match up to her.

"I can never win from you, can I?" he commented, his tone teasing yet fond.

Jungkook chuckled in response, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Guess not,"

"Come, let me teach you magic," Taehyung spoke.

"Really?" Jungkook asked excitedly and left her precious chocolates on the bed.

Taehyung led Jungkook to the centre of the room, his hands enveloping hers with a comforting warmth. They stood facing each other, the mark on Jungkook's wrist glowing softly, mirroring the gentle glow coming from the mark on Taehyung's chest.

"Magic is all about focus and intent," Taehyung explained, his eyes locked on hers. "You have to believe in yourself and the power within."

Jungkook nodded eagerly, her heart pounding with excitement and a touch of nervousness. "I'm ready,"

Taehyung smiled warmly, his thumbs gently tracing circles on the back of her hands. "Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Feel the energy flowing through you, from your core to your fingertips."

Jungkook followed his guidance, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. She focused on the warmth of Taehyung's hands, thinking about their connected marks. Gradually, she felt a tingling sensation, a faint power stirring within her.

"You're doing great," Taehyung encouraged his voice a soothing presence in her mind. "Now, visualize what you want to achieve. Let that image guide your energy."

With concentration etched on her face, Jungkook pictured a small orb of light forming between their palms. She felt the energy respond to her thoughts, connecting into a shimmering ball of light that hovered just above their hands.

"Ejecenum Lightium," Taehyung whispered, his voice rich with will.

"Dynamí kai fos," Jungkook murmured her chant, her voice growing stronger with each repetition of the spell.

And at that moment, as their magic reached its peak. The room began to fill with soft, golden light, casting everything in a warm, ethereal glow.

They gazed at each other, surrounded by the dreamy ambience of the room, time seemed to stand still. It was as if they were suspended in a moment of pure magic, where nothing else mattered except the love that flowed between them.

Jungkook's eyes sparkled with excitement as she looked up at Taehyung, her hands clasped together in anticipation.

"How did you do this? Please teach me," she pleaded, her voice filled with eagerness.

Taehyung gently brushed a stray strand of hair away from her face, his touch soft and reassuring. The husband leaned in close, his voice barely above a whisper as he spoke, "Should I tell you a secret?"

Jungkook's eyes widened with curiosity, and she nodded eagerly, urging him to continue.

"I am not the one who did this," Taehyung confessed, his gaze locking with Jungkook's as he watched her reaction closely.

"You mean I did this?" Jungkook asked, her voice filled with disbelief as she processed Taehyung's words. And when he nodded in confirmation, her face lit up with joy, a bright smile spreading across her features.

Jungkook's eyes sparkled with delight, her smile widening into a radiant beam that lit up the room. She threw her arms around Taehyung, pulling him into a tight hug filled with joy and excitement.

"I did it!" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with happiness. "I can't believe it! Thank you, Mr Kim!"

Taehyung stiffened for a brief second as Jungkook unexpectedly hugged him, the sensation was foreign yet oddly comforting. He could feel the soft press of her warmth, her heart racing just as fast as his and the realization of their closeness struck him harder than he anticipated.

Jungkook's embrace was light, almost innocent, but it stirred something deep within him—a flicker of emotion he wasn't used to confronting.

Growing up in a world where affection was rare and love was more transactional than genuine, Taehyung had built thick walls around his heart.

Vulnerability had always been a weakness he couldn't afford.

But now, standing with Jungkook in his arms, her happiness against his chest, he felt those walls waver, if only slightly.

Taehyung's long fingers splayed across her back as if testing the waters of this unfamiliar affection. He could feel her soft hair brush against his chin and the rhythm of her breath. Her heart was racing and he wondered if she could hear the quickened beat of his own.

For someone who had always kept emotions at arm's length, this moment felt surprisingly intimate—almost vulnerable.

His thumb absentmindedly brushed over the fabric of her dress, tracing a small, unconscious circle on her back, trying to memorize her under his touch.

He inhaled deeply, catching the faint scent of her shampoo—something sweet and light, a perfect reflection of her.

Jungkook didn't pull away right away and neither did he. Instead, they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms and Taehyung allowed himself to surrender to the comfort of it. His head dipped slightly, his cheek brushing the top of her head and he closed his eyes.

Affection was something he rarely experienced. His life had been shaped by boundaries, by walls built to protect him from vulnerability.

Yet, here Jungkook was, breaking through with a single embrace.

A wave of protectiveness crept up on him. How she fit in his arms, so small and fragile compared to his usual stoic exterior, stirred a deep, unspoken desire to keep her safe.

It wasn't love, not yet, but there was something about her—something that made him want to lower his guard, even if just for a moment.

It felt unfamiliar but oddly right.

As they stood there, wrapped in each other's arms, Taehyung allowed himself to feel—really feel. With Jungkook, there was no need for the pretence of indifference. He didn't have to maintain his distant, aloof persona.

Jungkook was different—her warmth chipped away at the walls around his heart, leaving him vulnerable in ways he wasn't quite ready to admit, even to himself.