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Life without you is unbelievable

But even so I still gotta go

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On his way back from an International Shipping Expo summit in Seodaemun-gu district, the young CEO sat with a stoic expression on his handsome face. When it comes to doing business, Jungkook is content, but this exhausting long day has disoriented him, and he now sees ghosts from the past and ghosts from the future...

His boardroom prowess earned him global respect from business associates and international trade. But right now, his mind was racing with thoughts of seeing his ex-girlfriend again at his friend Jung-suks'restaurant. 

He is unsure how he should feel. His heart was shattered. She brought to the surface the deep emotions he had hidden in the depths of his soul. He can't get his mind off the devastation in her eyes. Why does she appear to be in pain when she was the one who caused the pain in his life? For nearly two years, he was unable to move on.

He adored her; she was "it" for him, the only woman he wanted to spend his life with. He had been pursuing her for months, and she had rejected him eleven times, much to the chagrin of his Bangtan Elite club.

She and Taehyung were best friends who both studied art and design. He was gone the moment he laid eyes on her, but she wasn't impressed. He tried to impress her, but she ignored him until he bribed his dear friend Taehyung to help him get near her.

She was unpretentious and pure. She was dubbed "the hot nerd" during her sophomore year of marketing. He was a senior in his business undergraduate year. He couldn't sleep because of this girl. He'd never wanted a woman as much as he did her. He trusted her completely... until she betrayed him.

The word "love" had left him devastated and disillusioned. For months, he couldn't get over her betrayal, until his heart froze and he swore she'd get what she deserved-  His fury.

His deep love and devotion turned to hatred. She went on with her life, even going to Tokyo to pursue her graduate degree. 

Even if his mother and his best friend's mother had arranged for him and Sullia to tie the knot, but he couldn't forget her.Sullia was his safe haven, and while he is not romantically attached to her, she accepted him and loves him. But thinking about Sullia doesn't make him feel better right now. Ms. Song Jenna ruined him, and she began to occupy mental space she was not permitted to occupy. She blackened his heart to love forever.

His distressed train of thought was unexpectedly interrupted by his dedicated driver. His dark eyes looked concernedly at the young CEO, who appeared to be carrying the world on his shoulders.

"Sir, it's already 8 p.m.; must I still take you to the office, your apartment, or the estate?" His driver inquired, peering at him in the rearview mirror. He drove his boss to and from business meetings and conferences for a few days. It had been a hectic three days. However, he detected an undercurrent of despondency or despair in his young master. He had been the Jeons' personal driver for nearly 20 years, and he had never seen his young master so out of it. Despite the fact that the company was doing well, he was mostly quiet these days.

Jungkook sighs deeply as he nods with a detached tone and softly says, "Take me straight to the estate. Duri-hyung. Thank you. My halmeoni desires that the family be together." He is completely disinterested in the task at hand. With his grandmother present, family dinners are usually a battleground. He adores his grandmother, but the feud between her and his mother is wearing him down. And, with Eunjin on the verge of divorce, it would be yet another topic to discuss at the dinner table. Fortunately, his issues with his ex are off-limits.

He furrowed his brow, recalling his grandmother and mother's tumultuous relationship. They just couldn't seem to agree on anything. From business to personal matters, His grandmother is vehemently opposed to arranged marriage. He understood his mother's feelings. She just wanted him to be happy, to be settled with someone who loved him and to start his own family.

He didn't see any problem with marrying Sullia; at the very least, she is woman enough in certain departments to not be a disappointment in their marriage, and he had to stop even denying that Jenna was his match and that she could match his passion. He sighs in regret over his failed love relationship.

When his perilous thoughts took him involuntarily back to the ghost of his past, the pain was still lurking deep within him. He shook his head to get rid of these troubling thoughts. Mr. Duri finally drove into the Jeons' second estate. The official family residence is in Busan, near their officers at the dock. His brother and wife, NingNing, live in the family mansion, but their children usually visit their grandmother during the week because they all attend an online homeschool.

He greeted Duri as he was dropped off in front of the massive, palatial mansion. This is a $30 million estate in one of Seoul's wealthiest neighborhoods, and what else would you expect from Shipping's most formidable and feared matriarch? His mother is a very strong and unyielding woman who sometimes didn't comprehend her children's weaknesses, and poor Eunjin, with her soft spirit, is often the one who feels the wrath of her motherly love.

Jungkook smiled as he entered the imposing ambiance of the foyer. A small whirlwind dashed over to him. Little Kwan's gaze was fixed on his favorite uncle, who dashed in his direction like lightning.

"Samchon! Samchon!" shrieked his excitement. Jungkook's face broke out in a genuine smile as he grabbed and lifted the toddler into the air while squealing.

"Oh, my boy is getting so big. Look at those big boy muscles "He kissed the boy on the soft cheek. Kwan just giggled as he was softly embraced in his uncles' arms. Jungkook smiled and took a lollipop from his pocket, much to Kwans' delight.

When his mother noticed him in the foyer, she smiled tenderly and strutted over to him, saying, "Gukie... oh my gosh, you're here, dear.  I hope the conference wasn't too demanding.  Are you running a little late today?"

"Oh, good evening, Eomma," he smiled as he nodded after greeting his mother. He took Kwan in his arms and followed his mother to the living room after exchanging his dress shoes for a comfortable slip-on.

He smiled tiredly. "It was an unusually exhausting day. I met Mr. Lim of Lim Medical Apparatus. He was very impressed with our most recent marketing strategy. I believe he wants to sign a freight contract with us. His medical equipment is being shipped to Western countries. His plans to expand his business to Dubai and the United States are underway. " He sat down, Kwan on his lap, and told his mom about his long day.

"Umm... where is Halmeoni—-Eunjin?" he asked, raising his eyebrows.

"That old hag is in her room—she was with her personal assistant all day doing author business," his mother scoffs. "I'm curious how Namjoon as her publisher is dealing with her domineering demeanor. I hope she leaves soon. I can't take her nagging and bicker any longer." When she saw her son's amused expression, she sighed deeply.

Jungkook pressed his lips together, trying not to snort. Kwan wiggled himself free of his when he saw his mother and great-gran coming down the stairs. His cute face was lighting up like fireworks at the sight of his mom. 

"Eomma!!!" he dashed as fast as possible where his little legs could carry him. Jungkook smiled fondly at the little whirlwind. He loves Kwan so much and he already feels dread when Eunjin will be moving to Ulsan, soon. He is so used to this little boy.

When they arrived in the living room, his grandmother and sister were chatting. Jungkook stood up, bowed, and quickly kissed his grandmother on the cheek before giving Eunjin a tight brotherly hug. He could tell she was trying to smile, but the pain was still visible behind her eyes as she looked up at her twin brother.

"Hiya, Bro...nice to see you. How are you doing?" She inquired, her voice muffled against the chest where he embraced her. Her brother noticed that she had a beautiful smile on her face, but it didn't reach her expressive eyes.

"Eujin...I have to ask you that. Are you okay?" He kissed her on the cheek.

"We'll be fine, Guks," she said gently, nodding as she sensed her brother's concern.

She simply took his hand and led him back to where their grandmother and mother were standing. Their mother, Da-hee, appears agitated. His grandmother was already complaining, which drives his mother insane.

"I'm starving. When are we going to eat in this house? I like to eat my meals early which is good for my intestines—- "His granma exaggeratedly whined as she sat next to the twins on the plush sofas, patting her short platinum-white hair in order. She looked regal with her bright red lips and smoky eyeshadow. She is still a beautiful woman after 70 years.

Da-hee scoffed quietly, "Eomma, dinner is ready. We were just waiting for you to do what you do best: waste everyone's time...act like an uncrowned queen "She jabbed softly, haughtily.

Eujin laughs a little "Come on, EOMMA, don't take Halmoeoni so seriously. You two are worse than a married couple."

"She's more of an outlaw than a mother-in-law," their mother grumbled. Looking glumly at her mother-in-law, who simply shrugged nonchalantly.

"There is, indeed, a distinction between inlaws and outlaws. The outlaws are wanted...but not you." Grandma said airily.

"Oh my word!" sighed Eunjin, defeated.

Da-hee simply shrugged her shoulders and led the family to the dining room for dinner. The chef paid special attention to the buffet dinner he prepared. He is already familiar with the big matriarch's quirks and preferences. Eunjin and Jungkook simply smirk at each other and follow their mother to the opulent dining room. The Jeons have no financial difficulties. Because of their global freight company, they are billionaires in their own right. Their grandmother simply raises her chin haughtily and strutters past the twins like a regal queen...more like a sassy diva.

"This will be a long dinner—-" Eunjin sighed as she took Kwon's hand in hers and followed her brother. She wishes she could be at her own home, but her family's house has already been sold, so she and Kwon were forced to stay with their mother until her new apartment purchase was completed. Even though she tried to maintain a cheerful mood, Jungkook felt compassion for his sensitive sister. 

Her impending divorce caused her to bottle up her feelings. He knew she'd snap one day because she'd put herself in denial and it seems like everything she says or does is sugar-coated. She didn't say a thing that day. Both he and his sister experienced deep rejection and betrayal. He has at least moved on with Sullia, but he is doubtful about his sister.

"At least it prevents Eomma from interfering in our lives," he chuckled,  hugging her on the side.

Eunjin's eyes were teary as she merely nodded.

Dinner was a tense affair. The chef went above and beyond to prepare a delectable menu, especially for the senior Jeon Matriarch. She is very demanding and requires a lot of maintenance. She even has her own personal schedule, which drives her daughter-in-law insane. Her special tea time included a chocolate croissant and cheese. Specially prepared. She has specific preferences for her bed, and her pillowcases must be changed after her daily two-hour nap. She desires a revitalizing foot spa treatment for her tired feet every day.

The estate's six maids had to run around like headless chickens to cater to the Matraich's every whim, which irritates her daughter-in-law to no end.

Da-hee even invited Jungkook to stay with them for a week to help her keep the peace with his sassy and annoying grandmother. If it wasn't too sweet talk Mrs. Jeon Sr. into selling her shares to Da-hee so that she could have a larger stake in the shipping company. But the old lady is a tough nut to crack.

"When will Halmoeni return home?" Jungkook inquired as he chewed on some BBQ Pork. He absolutely loves tender meat. 

His grandmother smiled."Well, Kim Publishers has already sorted my latest manuscript, and after another meeting tomorrow with their graphics designer to approve the cover, I'll be off to France by the weekend." She declares smugly. Eunjin looked at her mother's relieved expression. If she could, her mother would celebrate. That's how excited she is about the prospect of getting rid of her mother-in-law.

"Oh wow! " Jungkook only states.

"Aren't you flying to Paris for that Business conference this weekend?" his grandmother inquired.

"Yes, I need a break from the routine. I'll be here for at least a week. The conference will last about three days. Maybe Halmeoni and I can spend more time together in Paris. I'll be staying at the Shangri-La Hotel in Paris. Perhaps Gran can come and stay at the same hotel before returning to Marseilles." He raised his eyebrows in anticipation of her raised brows. Then a big smile appeared on her face.

"That'll be superb, my boy, I need to talk to you privately about the big decision you'll be making soon...with which I don't agree."She scrunched up her nose and looked at Da-Hee accusingly.

"Why is Eomma staring at me like that? They made the decision to get married. I think Jungkook can take his fiance and discuss a wedding date. He is overworked, and they don't spend enough time together. Sullia and Jungkook were always meant to be together.  If he didn't get involved with that...that—-"when she noticed Jungkook's demeanor darken, she paused in her ranting, knowing that bringing up his ex would cause him to explode or withdraw into himself again. Eunjin looks pityingly at her brother's cold stare on his face.

"That's exactly what I mean! Da-Hee! You should be aware that arranged marriages do not work if one partner has already found love; you cannot force someone to love Da-Hee—-" Ms. Jeon Sr. retorted angrily to her daughter-in-law's perceptions.

"Eomma... Jungkook knows what he's doing? He and Sullia came to an understanding. They'll work it out, and their marriage will thrive without your intervention." Da-hee clenched her teeth in annoyance. She wishes she could throw her mother-in-law under a bus. She is a nuisance. Who can live with family members who constantly question your parenting abilities? She educated and raised her children alone, and she even had to live with her mother-in-law's son who also needed to be improved. Who continued to pursue a poor, orphaned girl.

Jungkook and Eunjin just sighed but remained silent. They've learned over the years not to get involved in their Eomma and Halmeoni squabbles. It usually ended in a bloodbath, or his Eomma would flee to her room in tears.

"That's exactly what I meant. An understanding. What a shame! My grandson should marry for love, not for company. Marriage for companionship is for the elderly, widowers, and divorcees. You and my sons' marriage didn't work out from the start—-"when his grandma brought up that sensitive subject, his Eomma jumped up with released rage. Her eyes were wide open, and her jaws were clenched.

"What! Jae Joon loved me. He was only tempted, as all men are. We had a wonderful marriage, and our children did well." His mother challenged her with a chilly voice, her nostrils flaring in front of everyone. It was still a touchy subject that she and their father were on the verge of divorce. He had already renounced her for months. His father desired to relocate to Greece to marry his true love. Nobody in his father's family is aware of his father's indiscretions.

The twins seemed concerned when they saw the two older women. It appears that secrets were bound to leak. Eunjin stood up and picked up Kwon, who was looking"sleepy. She must flee before her life is splattered in front of the entire family.

"Could we please be excused? Kwon needs to go to bed. He was feeling a little under the weather last night and couldn't sleep. So, please excuse me, Eomma... halmeoni. We'll go back to our room." She cracks a nervous smile. Bow to the rest of the family and rush upstairs to her room. Jungkook shook his head, knowing his sister had fled. After all, the discussions will eventually lead to her divorce.

"You are excused, dear. Guks. Just don't make any decisions right now. Don't rush into tying the knot. You are not your mother. You are still too young to marry. Don't let your Eommas' selfishness force you into slavery. I came from a loveless arranged marriage. Your Appa is the product of a loveless arranged marriage. So, don't let history repeat itself...listen to your heart and marry for love, not bloody companionship. If you require company, get a dog." She stood up and threw her napkin with force on the table, then turned to a wide-eyed Jungkook and then with one piercing and calculating look on his Eomma.

"You know my dear son," she said as she looked at her handsome grandson with deeply embedded sadness in her eyes "Your heart is open in front of your grandmother. Even in the midst of heartache. Remember that "she" taught you how to love passionately...but not to unlove "her.  Find your way back to love—-" she nods to a stunned and speechless Jungkook and a daughter-in-law who looks like she could catch snakes and walk briskly to the stairs Why does this matriarch appear and bring distortion and confusion to her son? She would not let anyone stand in his way of happiness. Even though Eunjin is her greatest disappointment, she worked hard to make a safe haven for Jungkook.

"I think I'll also retreat to my room," Jungkook said quietly as he stood up. I'm tired...thank you for the dinner, Eomma," he quietly kissed his mother on the cheek and walked slowly to the stairs, still stunned by the words of his grandmom. She knows him better than his mother does. He could never conceal his feelings from his grandmother.

She knows him well, even if he tries to deny it. She was aware that his heart was still imprisoned by his ex-lover. The woman he still loved...but deeply despised at the same time.

He instinctively knew that the 'love sting' is still as potent two years later as he stood dejectedly on his room balcony, staring with misty eyes over the beautiful nightscape of Seoul.

A/n: another update for the Kookie-stans. Mother and daughter-in-law butt heads. Who will win?

Thank you for reading, voting, commenting, and adding the book to your public library list.

Shout out to Beetaemin  midukutty  Hooky99  Yankeegirl255 

1. Do you believe Jungkook will follow his heart or his head?

2. What are your thoughts on the senior Matriarch? 

3. What do you believe Jungkook should do?