—♡ ᴄᴏʟʟᴇᴄᴛɪᴏɴ ᴏꜰ ᴛᴀᴇᴋᴏᴏᴋ ᴀᴜ'ꜱ ♡—

by Taekooksponsorme

Summary:

This work has a collection of the taekook fanfic or Au's that I have written on my twitter account @kookvsponsorme.

I hope you all enjoy reading them💗

Chapter 1: — ♡ —

---

 

Hi guys, this is Evara ( @kookvsponsorme ) , and I am just kinda making a collection of Taekook au that I have written on my Twitter account.  This includes all the mid length and short Au's. 🥺🌻

 

Please do interact!! Thankyou!!!

 

Chapter 2: —♡ ʙᴜᴛᴛᴇʀꜰʟɪᴇꜱ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ♡—

Summary:

“Taehyung is relentlessly teased by his siblings about Jungkook, leaving him flustered, confused, and in denial. Over time, he can't help but develop a liking for Jungkook.”

 

---

 

Taehyung and Shen cuddled under the blanket as they squinted at the TV screen. Taehyung quickly raised the blanket over his head in fear.

 

"What is happening?" Taehyung asked.

 

"She hasn't opened the door yet," Shen replied.

 

Then the girl opened the door in the movie, and Shen screeched as she pulled the blanket over her head. Taehyung peeked with one eye, then screamed his lungs out as he ducked under the blanket again.

 

"WHO IS IT? WHAT IS IT?" Yoongi screamed as he came running in with his baseball bat.

 

Taehyung and Shen turned to him in shock while he looked around, surprised.

 

"We were watching a movie," Shen replied as she paused it.

 

"Movie?" Yoongi asked furiously.

 

"Yes. It’s very scary," Taehyung replied.

 

"Shen, Taehyung? Why were you two screaming?" Joori asked as she walked in.

 

"Movie!" Yoongi replied in disgust. "If you can't handle it, then don't watch it."

 

"Just leave, hyung," Shen told her brother in disgust.

 

"You people better not scream again. The neighbors will start complaining," Joori told them sternly and left quickly after hearing the doorbell.

 

Yoongi made a disgusted face at them and walked off.

 

They were watching the movie again when Yoongi opened the door, poked his head in, and cheekily called out, "Taehyung?"

 

“Yes?”

 

"How do you two coordinate like this all the time?" Yoongi asked.

 

"Huh?" Taehyung responded, confused.

 

"Is he here?" Shen asked excitedly.

 

"Yup!" Yoongi said, equally excited.

 

"Who?" Taehyung asked in dread.

 

"Oh, stop acting as if you didn’t know," Yoongi teased.

 

"Where is he?" Shen asked excitedly.

 

"Having dinner."

 

"Come, let’s go meet him, Taehyungie," Shen said excitedly.

 

"I don’t want to meet him," Taehyung said disinterestedly.

 

"Oh, stop acting. We know you’re dying to meet him," Yoongi teased.

"NO!" Taehyung said, frowning. "Stop teasing him with me. I don’t even like him."

 

"Yeah… yeah… we know!" Shen said cheekily, smiling. Then, holding his hand, she pulled Taehyung from the bed and ran to the kitchen.

 

"Jungkook hyung!" Shen said excitedly as she ran into the kitchen, dragging Taehyung along.

 

"Shen! My love!" Jungkook says, opening his arms for her.

 

Shen hugs him, then turns to her mother and grins slyly, pointing at Jungkook and Taehyung. Joori looks away, chuckling at Taehyung's disgruntled expression.

 

"Taehyung!" Jungkook says, smiling as he leans back in his chair, looking at him.

 

"Hi," Taehyung says with an embarrassed smile.

 

"How many days are you going to be here?" Yoongi asks him.

 

"I'll go back on Monday morning," Jungkook replies.

 

"And what about you, Taehyung?" Yoongi asks.

 

"Monday evening," Taehyung says, trying to act normal.

 

Yoongi and Shen cheekily grin at each other. Taehyung glares at them while Jungkook's focus is on his food.

 

Taehyung didn't know how it all had started. Shen and Yoongi were his cousins from their mother's side, and Jungkook was their cousin from their father's side. All of a sudden, Shen and Yoongi started teasing him about Jungkook. It was true that Jungkook kind of flirted with him whenever they met, and Shen had been the first to notice it. Yoongi caught on soon after. Now they were always teasing him and telling Aunt Joori to get him married to Jungkook.

 

"Aunty... you come with me, darling! Damon is such an atrocious cook," Jungkook tells her.

 

"Why should our mother come with you? Get married," Shen tells him.

 

"To aunty?" Jungkook asks, shocked.

 

"Don’t you think she’s a little too old for me?"

 

"Shut up! Marry someone else! Right, Taehyung hyungie?" Shen asks him cheekily.

 

"I don't know."

 

"Come on, Taehyung! Shouldn’t you know?" Yoongi asks him.

 

Jungkook looks up at Taehyung curiously, not really understanding.

 

"Anyway... leave all that. What’s the plan for tonight? Let’s go out?"

 

"No going out!" Joori quickly tells them.

 

"It’s late. Everyone is staying in."

 

Joori is washing the plates while Shen and Taehyung hang around near her.

 

"Mama... talk to Somi aunt about Jungkook hyung and Taehyungie, no?"

 

"NO! I don’t want to marry him!" Taehyung says, pouting.

 

"Marry whom?" Jungkook asks as he walks in.

 

Taehyung panics, turns around to look at him, and sees him drinking water.

 

"No one," Taehyung quickly replies.

 

"You!" Shen replies at the same time.

 

"WHAT?" Taehyung asks, shocked, while Jungkook looks at Shen in surprise.

 

"She is mad!" Taehyung says in panic.

 

Chuckling at him, Jungkook walks off.

 

"Why did you do that?" Taehyung asks her in a furious whisper.

 

"Come on, he didn’t say no," Shen tells him cheekily.

 

"Shut up!"

 

"Taehyung... should I talk to Somi about it?" Joori asks him, smiling excitedly.

 

"No, aunty!" Taehyung says stubbornly and runs to Shen’s room as a blush creeps in.

 

Taehyung hears the door open and turns, saying, "Stop teasing me with him, Shen!"

 

"Ah!" Jungkook says, grinning.

 

Taehyung’s eyes widen at the sight of him. "Jungko-ok?"

 

"Hmmm."

 

"What are you doing here? Where’s Shen?"

 

"In Yoongi’s room. She sent me here to get you."

 

"Oh, okay... come," Taehyung says as he starts to walk toward the door.

 

"So... they tease you and me?" Jungkook asks, chuckling.

 

"They're mad," Taehyung replies, embarrassed.

 

"How long has this been going on?"

 

"Months now."

 

"Ah... Yoongi did say something about you a long time ago."

 

"Really?"

 

"Yeah... I scared him to death then. After that, he stopped," Jungkook tells him, smiling—making Taehyung smile.

 

“Jungkook has such a beautiful smile. sigh Only if he was single.”

 

"How’s your boyfriend?"

 

"Broke up... like six months ago."

 

Damn!

 

"Why?"

 

"He wasn’t ready to settle down. And I’m thinking of getting married."

 

"That must’ve been really sad."

 

"It wasn’t, because I realized I wasn’t in love with him."

 

"You found someone else?" Taehyung asks.

 

"No... no... not really," Jungkook tells him.

 

"Thinking of arranged marriage now. What about you?"

 

"My parents are still hunting."

 

Jungkook chuckles at that.

 

"What are we doing?" Taehyung asks excitedly as he walks into Yoongi’s room.

 

"We’re planning to play Pictionary. But what took you two so long?" Shen asks with a cheeky smile.

 

Before Taehyung could even glare at her, Jungkook replies, "We were kissing and lost track of time."

 

Shen’s eyes pop out while Taehyung turns to Jungkook in shock.

 

"That’s my brother!" Yoongi says, impressed, as he raises his hand for a high-five. Jungkook hits his hand and gets on the bed.

 

"Sit, love," Jungkook tells Taehyung.

 

"Huh?"

 

"Sit next to me. Don’t be shy now," Jungkook tells him.

 

"You two really kissed?" Shen asks, shocked.

 

"Yes!"

 

"NO!"

 

"I know, Taehyung, never kiss and tell... but they’re our brother and sister, right? What secrets from them?" Jungkook asks him.

 

"Oh my God! So there really is something going on between you two? And you told me there isn’t!" Shen says, outraged and hurt.

 

"Don’t blame him... I told him to hide it from you two," Jungkook tells her.

 

"Jungkook! You dog! Shut up!" Taehyung says, outraged.

 

"Why do you want to hide it from Shen, Taehyung?" Jungkook asks him.

 

"Yes... why? I always wanted you two to be together," Shen says, hurt.

 

"Even me!" Yoongi says, offended.

 

"I apologize on Taehyung's and my behalf," Jungkook tells them very soulfully.

 

"Apology is not enough!" Shen says, arms crossed.

 

"I am going to kill you!" Taehyung screams at Jungkook, pushes him onto the bed, and pounces on him, grabbing a pillow and hitting him.

 

"Ouch, Taehyung... that hurts," Jungkook says between bursts of laughter while Yoongi and Shen look on in shock.

 

"He's lying! He found out you two tease me with him, so he joined in!" Taehyung informs Yoongi and Shen while still hitting Jungkook.

 

"Yoongi... Shen, what's happening there?" Joori calls out. Yoongi quickly leaves the room to intercept his mother.

 

"Really?" Shen asks, outraged. Grabbing another pillow, she hits Jungkook.

 

Taehyung, who was straddling Jungkook, gets knocked forward onto him, and Shen falls on top of Taehyung—jamming him between her and Jungkook. As their bodies pressed against each other, Taehyung suddenly felt a stirring at Jungkook's private area. He looked at Jungkook in panic and saw Jungkook looking back with the same panic.

 

"Get off! Get off!" Jungkook croaks urgently. He pushes both Shen and Taehyung off and quickly sits up, grabbing a pillow to place on his lap. Taehyung scoots away in a panic.

 

"What happened?" Shen asks curiously.

 

"Nothing," Taehyung replies, then bursts out laughing after seeing Jungkook’s embarrassed expression.

 

Jungkook gives him a not-so-amused look.

 

"You asked for it," Taehyung smirks at him.

 

"And you never did?" Jungkook asks.

 

Taehyung’s eyes widen at the outrageous question.

 

"Asked what?" Shen asks, innocently clueless.

 

"Pain," Taehyung quickly answers before Jungkook can say anything else.

 

"Mom asked us not to make noise," Yoongi informs them as he walks back in.

 

"Let’s play. Who are the teams?"

 

"You and me!" Shen tells Yoongi. "Taehyungie sucks at drawing!"

 

Taehyung glares at her and switches places with Yoongi to sit next to Jungkook.

 

"What did you mean by that?" Taehyung asks him in a whisper.

 

"Come on... they tease you and me, and you never thought of me like that?"

 

"No... I haven’t."

 

"Liar," Jungkook teases him.

 

"You’re no longer ashamed," Taehyung accuses.

 

"You were laughing about it, which means you’re no longer embarrassed, which means you’re completely cool with it."

 

"I am not!"

 

"What are you two talking about?" Shen asks curiously.

 

"Strategies," Jungkook replies.

 

It was Taehyung’s turn to draw, and Jungkook’s to guess. Taehyung draws a cloud.

 

"Ass?" Jungkook guesses.

 

Taehyung looks up at him, shocked.

 

"Fat ass?"

 

Taehyung glares at him and starts drawing more clouds around.

 

"Wow, Taehyung... that is one hell of a fantasy you’re drawing out there."

 

Taehyung looks up, confused.

 

"So many fat asses all at once!"

 

"Time’s up!" Shen says excitedly.

 

"CLOUDS!" Taehyung says furiously.

 

"God! It so didn’t look like clouds," Jungkook says, acting very disappointed.

 

Taehyung stares at the image Jungkook is drawing—shocked. It looks like a penis.

 

"What are you drawing?" Yoongi asks, appalled.

 

Jungkook gives him a look, then turns to Taehyung, expectantly waiting for him to guess.

 

"I don’t know," Taehyung says, irritated and blushing.

 

Jungkook looks at him in disbelief, then draws another identical figure beside the first one.

 

"I don’t know. Try drawing something else."

 

"Is that what I think it is?" Shen asks, stunned.

 

Taehyung gasps as Jungkook innocently nods yes.

 

"Time’s up!"

 

"Popsicle, Taehyung... can’t you even guess that?" Jungkook says, very disappointed.

 

"Oh!" Yoongi says, relaxing.

 

"Popsicle…?" Shen squints at the drawing. "Oh, I see it now... I thought it was something else," she says, blushing.

 

"You’re worse than Taehyungie at drawing."

 

"I want to sleep," Taehyung declares.

 

"Yeah! We’re losing anyway," Jungkook chimes in.

 

"All of us will sleep here?" Shen asks excitedly.

 

Everyone nods.

 

They lie on the bed with Jungkook at one end, and Yoongi, Shen, and Taehyung at the other.

 

"Stop kicking me!" Shen yells at Yoongi.

 

"You’re the one who’s kicking me!" Yoongi snaps back.

 

"Stop it, you two!" Taehyung groans, annoyed.

 

"I don’t want to sleep next to him."

 

"Even I don’t want to sleep next to her."

 

"Fine! I’ll sleep in the middle," Jungkook declares. Yoongi and Jungkook switch places.

 

Jungkook and Shen were talking softly when Shen suddenly turned in her sleep and kicked Taehyung, sending him tumbling off the bed.

 

"You alright?" Jungkook asked, quickly helping him up.

 

Taehyung nodded, rubbing his side as he turned to Shen. "Shen... don’t kick in your sleep. Please. If you kick, I’ll fall off the bed."

 

Shen blinked sleepily. She was definitely a kicker.

 

"Do one thing... you sleep in the middle and I’ll sleep on the end," she said, already shifting places before Taehyung could protest.

 

"No... I’ll sleep on the side," Taehyung insisted.

 

"No! Now I’m scared I might kick you off again. Just sleep in the middle, Taehyungie."

 

With a sigh, Taehyung climbed back onto the bed, lying reluctantly between Shen and Jungkook.

 

Taehyung and Jungkook lay on their backs, side by side, wide awake. Shen kicked again in her sleep, and Taehyung was shoved up against Jungkook.

 

They turned their heads to look at each other.

 

"She kicks a lot in her sleep," Taehyung said, clearly embarrassed.

 

Jungkook gave a small nod.

 

A few minutes later, Yoongi kicked Jungkook, and this time, Jungkook ended up pressing into Taehyung.

 

"Do you think they planned this?" Taehyung whispered.

 

"Making us sleep in the middle?"

 

"Yeah."

 

"And the thought just occurred to you now?" Jungkook asked, raising an eyebrow.

 

"It occurred to you?"

 

"When they started fighting, yeah."

 

"You volunteered to sleep in the middle!" Taehyung whispered, shocked.

 

"They would’ve kept bickering until we switched places. And… I wanted to talk to you."

 

"Talk to me?" Taehyung asked, surprised.

 

"Yup."

 

"About what?"

 

"Is she asleep?"

 

Taehyung turned to check. "Yeah. What about Yoongi?"

 

"He’s lightly snoring," Jungkook confirmed.

 

"What did you want to talk about?"

 

"I’m sorry if I embarrassed you. It was just for fun."

 

"If you embarrassed me? As if that wasn’t exactly what you were going for," Taehyung muttered.

 

Jungkook grinned. "You look damn cute when you get worked up. And I got a golden opportunity—I couldn’t pass it up."

 

"Hmph!"

 

"But the other thing... not intentional. That guy has a mind of his own."

 

Taehyung turned pink and quickly looked away.

 

Then Jungkook asked softly, "Why did you say you didn’t want to marry me?"

 

"Huh?"

 

"Stop acting dumb and tell me your reason," Jungkook said, voice low but firm.

 

"Why?" Taehyung asked, eyes wide in surprise.

 

"Once you answer, I’ll tell you."

 

Taehyung hesitated, then admitted, "I thought you were seeing someone."

 

"That’s the only reason?" Jungkook asked, watching him carefully.

 

"And..." Taehyung looked down, voice softer, "I never thought you felt that way about me."

 

Jungkook leaned in slightly. "Have you ever felt that way about me?"

 

Taehyung paused. He thought about it—how, after Yoongi and Shen had started teasing him, he’d begun noticing Jungkook more. The way his eyes crinkled when he laughed, how kind he was even when being a menace. It had grown into a quiet crush that he’d buried, knowing Jungkook had a boyfriend.

 

"Why didn’t you ever tell them about your boyfriend?" Taehyung asked instead, deflecting.

 

"Why didn’t you?"

 

"You told me not to," Taehyung reminded him. "I was tempted when they wouldn’t stop teasing, but I gave you my word I wouldn’t."

 

"Those two can’t keep a secret," Jungkook said with a huff.

 

"But you trusted me with your secret," Taehyung replied with a small smile.

 

Jungkook gave him a look. "Did you forget you overheard me on the phone with my ex, and that’s why I told you?"

 

Taehyung pulled a face, and Jungkook chuckled.

 

"But I was never worried you’d tell anyone," Jungkook added. "So I guess I do trust you." He leaned closer. "Now answer my question."

 

Taehyung blinked, confused. "What question?"

 

"Have you thought about me... like that?"

 

"You said you’d tell me your reason if I answered."

 

"I did. I told you I’m thinking of getting married."

 

Taehyung’s eyes widened. "And you think I’m a possible candidate?"

 

Jungkook nodded slightly. "I’ve always had these... on-and-off crushes on you."

 

"You did?" Taehyung asked, shocked.

 

"Yes," Jungkook said, simply. "Hmm... you?"

 

Taehyung bit his lip, unsure what to say. How could he admit it now?

 

He looked away, unable to hide the small smile tugging at his lips.

 

Then he felt it—Jungkook’s hand slipping under the blanket to gently clasp his. Taehyung turned, eyes locking with Jungkook’s. The older boy was watching him intently, his thumb softly brushing the back of Taehyung’s hand.

 

Taehyung’s breath hitched. A blush bloomed across his cheeks as electricity seemed to rush through him at that simple, tender touch.

 

Neither of them said anything after that. Somewhere between the warmth of the blanket, the soft breaths around them, and Jungkook’s fingers intertwined with his, Taehyung shifted closer. Jungkook welcomed him wordlessly, wrapping an arm around Taehyung’s waist. And just like that, they fell asleep in each other’s arms—quiet, wrapped in a hush only shared secrets could bring, with a feeling that maybe, just maybe, this was the beginning of something real.

 

Jungkook woke up to the soft weight of Taehyung resting against his chest, his breath warm against his collarbone. For a long moment, he simply lay there, eyes on Taehyung’s peaceful face, taking in every soft curve and gentle breath. When he turned his head, he noticed Yoongi and Shen were still fast asleep, sprawled carelessly. Smiling to himself, Jungkook lay back again, arms loosely around Taehyung, savoring the rare, quiet closeness.

 

Soon, Taehyung stirred. His lashes fluttered as he woke, and then his eyes slowly opened. He blinked, realization hitting when he saw where he was—lying on Jungkook. Embarrassed, he tried to get up, but Jungkook pulled him down again with a soft laugh.

 

“This is how I want to wake up for the rest of my life,” Jungkook murmured, his voice low and sincere.

 

Taehyung’s cheeks turned crimson. “I need to go,” he whispered shyly.

 

Jungkook released him reluctantly, and Taehyung quickly sat up and hurried out of the room, heart racing.

 

 

---

 

That night, after Shen and Yoongi had finally dozed off, Taehyung and Jungkook found themselves side by side in bed again—hands brushing, glances lingering.

 

“What time will you leave tomorrow?” Taehyung asked softly.

 

“Early morning,” Jungkook replied.

 

Taehyung nodded, the weight of their brief but meaningful time together sinking in.

 

“I’ll be leaving tomorrow evening,” Taehyung added quietly.

 

“I’ll see you soon,” Jungkook said.

 

“When?”

 

“I don’t know,” Jungkook admitted, his voice a little tender.

 

Taehyung’s fingers tightened around Jungkook’s under the blanket.

 

Jungkook glanced at Yoongi—lightly snoring—and then at Shen, completely knocked out.

 

“Even if a truck ran over him, Yoongi wouldn’t wake up. What about Shen?”

 

“Same,” Taehyung whispered.

 

With a mischievous glint in his eyes, Jungkook pulled the blanket over their heads.

 

“What are you doing?” Taehyung asked breathlessly, heart pounding.

 

Jungkook didn’t answer. Instead, he leaned in, closing the gap between them. His lips met Taehyung’s in a gentle kiss—slow, tender, full of the feelings they hadn’t yet said out loud. Beneath the blanket, in their little cocoon of warmth and secrecy, the world faded away.

 

---

 

Taehyung woke late the next morning, surprised by how much space there was around him. Blinking at the clock—8:00 AM—he sat up with a start. Jungkook… had he already left?

 

Memories of their kiss from the night before made his cheeks warm, but the sudden absence left a pang in his chest. Had Jungkook really gone without even saying goodbye?

 

Dragging his feet to the kitchen, Taehyung tried to shake off the sadness.

 

“Good morning, aunty,” he greeted quietly.

 

“Good morning, Taehyung. Did they wake up?”

 

“No…”

 

“Good. I wanted to talk to you,” Joori said, leading him out into the garden where Mr. Min was already sipping his tea.

 

“Good morning, uncle,” Taehyung greeted.

 

“Good morning, Taehyung. Sit, we need to talk.”

 

Taehyung’s stomach knotted. “Yes… tell me.”

 

“This morning, Jungkook woke me up,” Mr. Min began.

 

“Jungkook?” Taehyung repeated, surprised.

 

“Yes. He told me that ever since his parents passed away, he’s seen us as his own—and that he wants us to ask your parents for your hand.”

 

Taehyung’s eyes widened in shock. “What?”

 

Joori smiled warmly. “I know you always got shy when we teased you two, but Jungkook is a good boy. He’d take care of you. So, shall we talk to Somi and Samuel?”

 

Blushing deeply, heart pounding, Taehyung slowly nodded, his voice caught in his throat. He didn’t need words—his glowing cheeks said it all.

 

---

 

Three months later, Taehyung and Jungkook were staying at a cozy cabin for a weekend getaway with their friends. They had barely been married a week, but already, the tension from their close quarters started to get to them. Taehyung was already on edge, and Jungkook could feel the pressure building up between them.

 

"Taehyung," Jungkook grumbled as they lay in bed with their friends snoring in the other room. "What is wrong with you?"

 

"What’s wrong with me? What’s wrong with you?" Taehyung shot back, his hand firmly gripping Jungkook's as if he could steady his emotions.

 

Jungkook raised an eyebrow, confused. "What? And take your hand off me," Taehyung ordered with an edge to his voice as he pulled Jungkook's hand from under his shirt.

 

Jungkook sat up, frustrated. "We haven’t even been married for a week, and I can’t believe we’re having a slumber party with them!" He motioned toward the other room where Yoongi, Shen, and Jimin were likely still awake, probably plotting some chaotic nonsense.

 

"Why did you agree to it then?" Taehyung crossed his arms over his chest, glaring at Jungkook.

 

"Because you said yes to these idiots!" Jungkook replied, exasperated.

 

Taehyung huffed. "How could I say no? You know I was shy about saying I wanted to sleep alone with you."

 

Jungkook’s hands went to his head in frustration. "Oh, God! You are too much, Taehyung." He stood up, grabbing Taehyung by the hand and pulling him off the bed. "Come on, let’s go to the other bedroom."

 

"What if they wake up and find us missing?" Taehyung asked, his voice filled with concern.

 

"They’re not kids, Taehyung," Jungkook said dismissively. "They’ll be fine."

 

"But they’ll know why we left, and it’ll be so embarrassing!" Taehyung protested, his face turning pink at the thought.

 

Jungkook sighed, running a hand through his hair, losing his patience. Then, without warning, he leaned down and kissed Taehyung fiercely, his lips pressing against his in a way that left Taehyung breathless. The kiss was deep, hungry, and it ignited something inside of Taehyung.

 

"Oh my!" Taehyung gasped, his heart racing as he pulled back, blushing furiously.

 

"Screw them. Let them have fun. Let’s go," Jungkook said, grinning, his pride clearly shining through.

 

"That’s my boy!" Jungkook’s voice was full of excitement as he gave Taehyung a quick wink. "Let’s go."

 

They quietly tiptoed out of the room, heading toward the other bedroom, their hearts pounding with anticipation of the night ahead.

 

---

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 3: —♡ ᴇɴᴛᴀɴɢʟᴇᴅ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛꜱ ♡ —

Summary:

where~Jungkook and Taehyung's love story faces a brutal twist when Jungkook is blackmailed into marrying another girl.The reason? Her brother impregnated Jungkook's sister & demands a marriage as a condition for retribution.

 

---

 

Taehyung happily walks into the cafe and spots Jungkook waiting for him. Jungkook seemed upset about something, but Taehyung was too happy with his news that he decided to share his news before he asked Jungkook what was troubling him.

 

Taehyung thought that once Jungkook heard his news he would be happy too, forgetting everything else. 

 

Jungkook gets up seeing him, Tae hugs him happily kissing him on his cheeks. Jk hugs him tightly, a little more than he usually do.

 

"I want to talk to you." Jungkook tells him.

 

"Before that I want to tell you something." Taehyung cuts him off happily.

 

"This is important, Taehyung."

 

"This is more important, I talked to my parents and they agreed for the wedding. Hyung said he will also come for the wedding. Isn't it great?" Taehyung tells him excitedly.

 

Jungkook sadly smiles at Taehyung hearing that.

 

"You talked to your parents?" Taehyung asks wondering whether they refused and that was the reason he was upset, as they had decided that they would wait till they got their parent's consent before they get married, They were bound to have objections as they were both Gay for eachother.

 

"I did."

 

"But they didn't agree." Taehyung says sobering up seeing him upset.

 

"My sister is pregnant." Jungkook tells him.

 

"Somi? But she is not..." Taehyung starts and stops.

 

"The guy is saying that only if I marry his sister, he will marry my sister." Jungkook tells him.

 

"How can he say that?" Taehyung asks angrily.

 

"His sister, it seems has been in love with me. I didn't even know that. They are our family friends."

 

"What have you decided?"

 

"When I think of Somi , I..." Jungkook stops as he tried to get his thoughts "I don't care, Taehyung. I love you. I want to marry you and have kids only with you ." Jungkook tells him in finality.

 

"What about Somi and her baby?" Taehyung asks , as he was forced to think of Jungkook's little sister.

 

"I don't know." Jungkook says desperately.right.

 

"When I think about her I want to sacrifice my happiness for her, but when I think of you, I just want to be with you." Jungkook says as he held his head helplessly. 

 

"My parents and Somi expect me to sacrifice you for Somi, but without you I am nothing, Taehyung."

 

Taehyung knew him well, all he has to do was tell him and Jungkook would marry him, but then for the rest of his life Jungkook would live with the guilt that he ruined his sister's and her baby's life.

 

His relation with his family will be broken. He would live in a hell and Taehyung loved him too much to see him suffer like that.

 

"I will always be with you, Jungkook." Taehyung tells him smiling.

 

Jungkook looks at him hopefully.

 

"So what if we are not married or together physically? We will always be each other's support. We will be with each other in our memory and love. Not every love finds its happy ending, Some remain incomplete yet beautiful." Taehyung tells him as he lovingly caressed his cheeks.

 

---

 

 5 years later

 

---

 

 

"NO!" Jungkook says ,forcefully breathing hard he wakes up sweating profusely. It's been 5 years, but he dreams of that day every single time he sleeps.

 

 Taehyung had left him, without any trace.

 

At times, it felt like those 9 months with Taehyung never happened, but the heart ache made it seem real as if it has just happened yesterday.

 

He wondered where Taehyung was, what was he doing now. Maybe he got married and moved on in his life.

 

Wherever Taehyung was, he wished and prayed for Taehyung to be happy.

 

The sacrifice Taehyung had made for his sister had only made his love for Taehyung all the time, more intense and more deep tht now it was becoming difficult for him to breathe without Taehyung.

 

Realizing he was sweating, Jungkook removes his seat belt, gets up from his seat & goes to freshen up.

 

By the time he had come out, the their was an announcement made that they're about to land.He resumes his seat and pulls out the file he had been studying before he fell asleep.

 

He was going to New York , for finalizing a business merger.

 

---

 

The next day, he was ushered into Min Yoongi's cabin. 

Min Yoongi was the CEO of Renaissance,the company he was planning the merger with.

 

Seeing Jungkook, Yoongi immediately gets up and shakes hand with a Gummy smile.

 

"Mr.Jeon Jungkook, finally we meet."

 

"Yes finally." Jungkook says with a smile.

 

"I hope your flight and stay here is comfortable." Yoongi says pleasantly.

 

"Everything is fine." Jungkook replies.

 

Yoongi gestures him to sit , Jungkook sits,& they start discussing about the merger. 

 

They were in between a deep discussion when the door bursts open, and they both looked up in irritation.

 

Yoongi's irritation soon changed into a big smile, Jungkook looks at the direction Yoongi was looking, wondering why there was no decorum in this office, you do not just barge into an office, specially your CEO's cabin.

 

Finally seeing the intruder, he couldn't help smiling. It was a small boy, hardly 4 years.

 

"I am here!!!" The boy shouts happily as he ran to Yoongi.

 

Yoongi scoops him up in his arms, as he happily smiled. Turning to Jungkook regretfully, he says

 

 "Sorry. Just a minute."

 

"Take your time."Jungkook says smiling at the boy.

 

It was evident that the boy was Yoongi's son,he was his mirror image.

 

"What are you doing here? Haven't I told you not to come here like this, especially when I am in a meeting?" Yoongi lovingly scolds him as he pulled his nose.

 

The boy starts laughing, "Yes you have told me."

 

"Then?"

 

"But I like coming here, Appa." he says.

 

"Really?" Yoongi starts tickling him on his stomach and the boy starts laughing out loud.

 

"Where is your Eomma?"

 

"Upstairs."

 

"Does he knows that you are here?" the boy nods his head quickly, a little too quickly.

 

"Misul..." Yoongi says in a warning tone.

 

"No." he pouts.

 

Yoongi shakes his head in disappointment. His phone starts ringing and he looks at the caller id, 

 

"It's your Mumma."

 

"Don't tell him ,that I am here."

 

"I will tell him." Yoongi tells Misul and quickly takes the phone saying,

 

"He is here, I am sending him up." then he hangs up smiling seeing a pout.

 

"You are bad!" Misul says angrily.

 

"So are you." Yoongi replies grinning.

 

"I am not bad! I am a 🕸️Spiderman 🕸️!" Misul says proudly as he made the famous Spiderman pose.

 

Jungkook starts chuckling seeing that.

 

Yoongi and Misul turns to look at him,Misul frowns at Jungkook for laughing at him.

 

"You do look like Spiderman." Jungkook tells him to appease him.

 

Misul makes the Spiderman pose more proudly now.

 

" Now, go." Yoongi says as he gently eased him off his lap.

 

"Who are you?" Misul asks Jungkook, having caught his attention.

 

"Jeon Jungkook, you can call me koo."

 

"I am Min Misul , you can call me Misu." Misul says as he puts his hand forward for a shake, Jungkook takes his hand and smiles at him.

 

Then misul smiled at him, and his smile reminded Jungkook of Taehyung's smile. There was an uncanny resemblance in the way he smiled.

 

Jungkook's heart breaks realizing that if he had married Taehyung, then maybe they would have had a kid like misul now.

 

"You should go now, Misul, I have an important meeting and your Mumma is waiting for you."

 

"Okay." Misul says pouting.

 

"Bye koo."

 

"Bye Spidey." Jungkook said making Misul smile at him, like the way Taehyung used to smile at him when he was truly happy.

 

Jungkook watched as Misul dragged his feet to prolong his stay there.

 

Jungkook wanted misul to stay back, it was strange he was always weird around kids, but with Misul,it was different, he wanted to get to know him,love him , care for him.

 

Maybe, it was because of the resemblance of Misul with Taehyung or because Misul made him feel at home like Taehyung.

 

"He is a cute boy." Jungkook tells Yoongi after Misul leaves.

 

"He is a brat." Yoongi tells him proudly, "he is having holidays now and he is bored out of his wits. So, he keeps coming here without his Mumma finding out." Yoongi tells him.

 

"Do you have any plans for the evening?" Yoongi asks.

 

"No."

 

"Then please come home for dinner." Yoongi invites him.

Jungkook nods his head.

 

"I stay in a penthouse in this building." Yoongi tells him, and then they get back to their discussion.

 

Jungkook promptly rings the bell at seven, and Misul opens the door for him.

 

"Koo!" Misul greets him happily.

 

"SPIDEY !" Jungkook greets him making him all excited, and Misul made Spiderman pose.

 

"This is for you." Jungkook brings his hand from behind and hands over a Spiderman figurine to him.

 

"SPIDERMANNNNN!!!" Misul says excitedly as he grabs the toy from Jungkook.

 

"Who is it, Misul?" Jungkook hears Taehyung's voice , he looks up in shock.

 

He sees Taehyung standing there staring at him in shock.

A hint of tear in his Taehyung's eyes as he smiled seeing him.

 

"Jungkook."

 

"Come on in!" Misul beckons eagerly, pulling Jungkook inside with excitement written all over his face.

 

Turning to Taehyung, he adds, "Look, Mama, what he got me. It's Spiderman!" With a gleeful shout, he scampers off, calling for his Appa.

 

Jungkook approaches Taehyung with a grin, "Hey, where did you vanish to, Taehyung? I searched high and low for you."

 

"How have you been, Jungkook?" Taehyung responds, deflecting the question.

 

"I'm good. And you?" Jungkook returns the inquiry.

 

"Oh, you two have met," Yoongi interjects, entering the room with Misul perched on his arm, clutching Spiderman tightly. Taehyung hastily wipes away a tear and heads inside.

 

 "Taehyung, I'm starving. Ready to set the table?" Yoongi prompts.

 

Taehyung nods, heading to the kitchen while Yoongi welcomes Jungkook inside.

 

Throughout dinner, Yoongi and Misul engage Jungkook in lively conversation, but Taehyung remains silent, lost in his own thoughts.

 

It's been five long years since he last saw Jungkook, and not a day has passed without him crossing Taehyung's mind. 

 

He wonders if Jungkook is happy in his life, with his wife.

 

For Jungkook's sake,he hopes he's moved on.But as their eyes meet, Taehyung sees a flicker of sadness in Jungkook's smile, & he can't help but feel his own heartache resurface.Quickly excusing himself, Taehyung retreats to the kitchen, feigning the need to fetch some banana milk.

 

Returning with bottles of banana milk, Taehyung watches silently as Misul eagerly gulps down his drink, his mind swirling with memories and emotions.

 

"Take it slow, Misul," Taehyung gently advised, his voice carrying a soft tone of concern. Misul nodded, though his actions contradicted his agreement as he continued to hastily gulp down his Banana Milk.

 

 Jungkook couldn't help but smile at Misul's enthusiasm for the drink.

 

"Don't mind him, Jungkook. He loses all sense of manners when he's on his banana milk spree," Yoongi chuckled, casting a teasing glance at Misul, who shot him a glare in response.

 

Taehyung's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, feeling mortified by Misul's lack of decorum in front of Jungkook.

 

"Can I have another one, please?" Misul sweetly pleaded with Taehyung.

 

"No, you've had enough banana milk for today, Misul. No more," Taehyung firmly refused, turning to Yoongi. 

 

"And don't give in to him either."

 

Yoongi simply shrugged and took another sip of his Banana Milk.

 

Taehyung excused himself, retreating back indoors, knowing that lingering any longer would make it impossible for him to ignore Jungkook.

 

As Taehyung walked away, Jungkook couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness.

 

He realized Taehyung was unsettled by his presence in his life. 

 

Taehyung had moved on and appeared content without him.

 

Jungkook knew he should leave, not wanting to be a source of distress for Taehyung.

 

However, as he prepared to depart, he noticed Misul watching him. A warm smile spread across Jungkook's face, feeling a paternal affection towards Taehyung's son. In that moment, Misul felt like his own child.

 

Jungkook couldn't help but resent his fate for separating him from Taehyung, especially now that Taehyung had a son with Yoongi. If circumstances had been different, Misul would have been his son, not Yoongi's.

 

Briefly, Jungkook's heart brimmed with irrational animosity towards Yoongi, although he knew it was unfounded. Taehyung deserved happiness, and it seemed Yoongi was providing that for him.

" I know magic "Misul tells him, snapping him out of his reverie. 

 

"You do?" Jungkook's curiosity is piqued, a grin spreading across his face.

 

"Do you want a demonstration?" Misul's eyes sparkle mischievously.

 

"I can perform a vanishing act on your Bananamilk," Misul confides, casting a secretive glance towards Yoongi, who is absorbed in his phone, oblivious to their exchange.

 

Jungkook chuckles, realizing Misul's playful intent.

 

"Make it disappear," Jungkook challenges, his anticipation evident in his grin.

 

Misul scans the room for any sign of his mother's return, then steals a quick glance at Yoongi before swiftly snatching Jungkook's Bananamilk and downing it in one gulp.

 

"Voila!" Misul exclaims with a mouthful of Bananamilk.

 

Jungkook bursts into laughter at Misul's antics, unable to contain his amusement. He fights the urge to scoop Misul into his arms and plant a kiss on his cheek.

 

Instead, he watches as Misul gestures for Yoongi to remain silent, his finger pressed to his lips, as he finishes off the Bananamilk.

 

Glancing at Yoongi, Jungkook sees him shaking his head in mock disapproval, adding to the comical scene unfolding before them.

 

"Not good, Misul," Yoongi said with a sigh, noticing the spilled banana milk on the table.

 

"It is fine. Anyway I didn't want it," Jungkook replied, trying to sound nonchalant, but his longing gaze betrayed his true feelings. Banana milk was his favorite drink, just like Misul's.

 

As Jungkook turned to Misul, he caught him quickly ducking under the table. Jungkook knew the reason and glanced towards the kitchen, where Taehyung stood, wearing a frown.

 

"Is there any problem?" Taehyung inquired, his gaze shifting from one person to another.

 

"Ask your son," Yoongi chimed in, betraying Misul.

 

"Misul? What are you doing under the table?" Taehyung's tone grew stern as he addressed his son.

 

Misul, still clutching his unfinished banana milk, shot a panicked glance at Jungkook from beneath the table. Jungkook turned to Taehyung, improvising quickly, "He's searching for his Spiderman toy. Can't seem to find it."

 

Taehyung observed Misul for a moment, then shook his head slightly in disappointment, sensing the lie. Without another word, he retreated back to the kitchen.

 

Once Misul emerged from under the table after finishing his drink, he turned to Yoongi with anger evident in his eyes.

 

"You are a bad boy. I don't like you."

 

"I didn't steal someone else's banana milk," Yoongi retorted defensively.

 

"You are not my best friend anymore. Koo is my best friend," Misul declared, gripping Jungkook's hand possessively, eliciting a smile from Jungkook.

 

"Now who is a traitor?" Yoongi taunted.

 

"YOU!" Misul snapped, his frustration evident.

 

Yoongi rolled his eyes.

 

 "When Jungkook leaves in two days, you're going to come crawling back to me," he predicted arrogantly, prompting Jungkook to question who among them was truly the child.

 

"Jungkook won't let me out of his sight!" Misul declares with unwavering determination, then turns to Jungkook.

 

"You won't leave, right? You'll stick around with me, won't you?"

 

Jungkook flashes a gentle smile, reluctant to deceive Misul. "You know I won't leave you," he reassures quietly.

 

Grinning triumphantly, Misul points out, "See! I told you!"

 

Observing Misul's joy, Jungkook realizes that staying by his side is exactly where he wants to be. He's willing to trade his previous life for the companionship of Misul and Taehyung, even though he knows Taehyung's loyalty lies with Yoongi, his husband.

 

Taehyung avoids Jungkook's gaze, and eventually, Jungkook decides it's time to depart as Yoongi sees Misul off for his bath.

 

"I should head out," Jungkook announces as he rises from his seat.

 

"Come on, the night's still young. Let's grab a drink," Yoongi insists,and starts addressing Taehyung without waiting for Jungkook's response.

 

Tae, I'm heading out. Lock up. And you, get some rest. I've got the key; I'll let myself in," Yoongi instructs, leading Jungkook out, leaving him little choice but to follow.

 

As they drink in silence, Jungkook merely nods along to Yoongi's chatter, his thoughts elsewhere.

 

 Discovering Taehyung's whereabouts and his child with another man leaves Jungkook grappling with a mix of emotions.

 

Deep down, he had hoped Taehyung would remain unmarried, but he doesn't hold it against him.

 

 Witnessing Misul only intensifies his guilt; had he taken action sooner, perhaps Taehyung and Misul would be with him now.

 

Yoongi glanced at Jungkook, a playful smirk curling his lips. "You seem a bit off today. Am I not entertaining you enough?" he teased, a chuckle escaping him.

 

Jungkook shrugged, trying to hide his distraction from Yoongi. "Just tired from the journey," he mumbled, not wanting to admit how much he enjoyed Yoongi's company.

 

"Why don't you head home then? Looks like I've found some company," Yoongi said, winking mischievously at Jungkook, his gaze already drifting towards a girl who seemed intrigued by him.

 

Jungkook's expression soured as he followed Yoongi's gaze, spotting the girl who had caught his attention.

 

 "See you tomorrow," Yoongi said, already starting to make his way over to her.

 

Furiously, Jungkook grabbed Yoongi's hand. 

"What are you doing?" he demanded, his frustration evident.

 

Yoongi just grinned cheekily. "What do you think? Don't give me the 'sex is taboo' lecture, please," Yoongi retorted, rolling his eyes playfully.

 

As Yoongi walked away, he tossed a request over his shoulder. 

"And do me a favor, if Misul asks, tell him I was with you all night —

 

That little brat loves gossiping to Taehyung about everything. I don't need his lectures on love and marriage. What I need is some action," Yoongi added, his tone flippant as he sauntered off to join the girl.

 

Left in shock, Jungkook stood there, torn between confronting Yoongi and protecting Taehyung's feelings.

 

 In the end, he chose to leave, knowing that causing a scene would only bring more harm than good.

 

Taehyung's heart raced as he swung the door open, revealing Jungkook standing on the doorstep, his expression grave.

 

"Jungkook, what's wrong?" Taehyung's voice quivered with concern.

 

"He's cheating on you, Taehyung," Jungkook blurted out urgently.

 

"Who?" Taehyung's brows furrowed in confusion.

 

"Your husband," Jungkook replied, his tone heavy with accusation.

 

"My husband?" Taehyung's voice trembled with shock.

 

"Yoongi! He's with another girl," Jungkook's words came out in a rush.

 

Taehyung's eyes widened in realization. "Oh..."

 

"I thought he was a good guy, but he's not. He doesn't deserve you, Taehyung," Jungkook's voice was laced with disappointment.

 

"He's a good man," Taehyung defended Yoongi, his tone wavering.

 

"Do you not believe me? I'm telling you the truth," Jungkook pleaded.

 

"It doesn't matter," Taehyung's voice remained surprisingly calm.

 

"Why, Taehyung? How can you stay with him knowing he's cheating?" Jungkook's desperation was palpable.

 

"What do you expect me to do?" Taehyung's question hung in the air.

 

"Leave him," Jungkook's words almost slipped into a plea.

 

"I think you should go, Jungkook," Taehyung's tone remained composed.

 

"Taehyung..."

 

"This is my life. Please don't interfere. If Yoongi is unfaithful, it's not your concern," Taehyung's words were firm as he closed the door, blocking out Jungkook's protests.

 

Left outside, Jungkook's mind raced. He hurried back to the pub, where he found Yoongi still engrossed in conversation with the other woman.

 

Jungkook's fists clenched with anger as he approached them, his resolve unwavering. With a swift motion, he delivered a punch on Yoongi's eye, igniting chaos as he continued to rain blows upon him, heedless of the shocked onlookers.

 

Furious, Jungkook yanks Yoongi up by the collar, seething, 

'You bastard! How could you do this to them?' 

 

Yoongi retaliates, kicking Jungkook on the shin, causing him to howl in pain.

 

As Jungkook staggers back, Yoongi denies any wrongdoing, 'I didn't do anything to them. I was just hoping.

 

But how the hell do you know her? You should have told me before when you saw me going for her.'

 

Yoongi, pointing at the girl, demands, 

 

 'HER?'

 

'I don't even know her!' Jungkook protests.

 

'Then what the hell is your problem?'

 

'I'm talking about Taehyung! Misul! Your family, you asshole!'

 

'What about my family? And what the hell does it have to do with you?' Yoongi's voice rises in anger.

 

'You have a family? You told me you were single!' the girl interjects, outraged.

 

'He has a family! Do you know how blessed you are to have a family like that? People die to get a family like that, Jungkook lashes out, his fury fueled by the injustice done to Taehyung and Misul.

 

'How could you forget Misul? Your own blood!'

 

'Misul my blood? Oh, please! You don't think he's my son, do you?' Yoongi asks, shocked.

 

'Did you just say Misul is not your son?' Jungkook steps menacingly towards Yoongi.

 

'You have a son?' the girl asks, shocked.

 

'Is sleeping with this girl so important to you that you're denying Misul is your son? Now you'll also say that Taehyung is not your husband.'

 

'Have you gone crazy, you moron?' 

Yoongi asks, incredulous.

 

'You have a husband too?' the girl 

demands, outraged.

 

'Bastard! I'm out of here.' With that, she storms off.

 

'Damn you!' Yoongi spits at Jungkook, his anger barely contained.

 

'If you ever hurt Taehyung and Misul again, I'll kill you!' Jungkook's threat hangs heavy in the tense air."

 

Yoongi's laughter echoed, void of joy. "Some folks mistake Misul for my son. I'll admit, the kid got my looks, but Taehyung as my husband? Now that's a joke, sick and twisted!" He spat out.

 

"Twisted?" Jungkook's voice trembled with disbelief.

 

"If you still don't get it, it means he's my brother, you fool!"

 

"Taehyung, your brother?" Jungkook's jaw dropped as he collapsed onto a nearby chair.

 

"Yes!"

 

"But Misul resembles you."

 

"Because I'm his uncle!"

 

"But he calls you 'Appa'!"

 

"That's because he doesn't know who his real father is. Until then, he asked if he could call me 'Appa,' and I said yes. I couldn't love him more if he were my own son, so I told him he could call me 'Appa' for as long as he wanted," Yoongi explained.

 

Jungkook's mind raced as he pondered Misul and Taehyung's relationship. If Taehyung wasn't Yoongi's spouse, could Misul be his son?

 

"You're bleeding," Jungkook pointed out as he noticed Yoongi's injured lip.

 

“ all thanks to you ”

 

"Who's Misul's father?" Jungkook demanded.

 

"I don't know," Yoongi admitted with a shrug.

 

"How can you not know?" Jungkook's frustration grew.

 

"Because I wasn't involved in creating him!" Yoongi retorted, exasperated.

 

"And why does it matter to you anyway?" Yoongi challenged.

 

"I need to know. Please, tell me everything," Jungkook pleaded.

 

Yoongi sighed, studying Jungkook for a moment. "Fine. What do you want to know?"

 

"Everything."

 

"Our parents moved to the US after they married. I was born first, then Taehyung. When he was around 9 or 10, they sent him to Seoul to prevent him from becoming too 'Americanized.' I never understood their logic. Whether you grow up in America, Seoul, or anywhere else, 

curiosity about intimacy and your body is universal. Everyone has needs, regardless of where they're raised," Yoongi explained.

 

"Can we get back to the topic?" Jungkook interjected impatiently.

 

Yoongi glares at him with simmering intensity, his grip tightening around his drink, as if each sip prolongs the brewing tension.

 

"Taehyung found himself tangled in a love affair. Our parents gave the nod, but his lover family hit a snag. His sister's pregnancy led to a shotgun wedding scenario. Some convoluted mess, huh? !" Yoongi mutters, a mixture of frustration and disdain lacing his words.

 

"Then Taehyung untangled himself to let the guy wed that girl. He returned, only to find himself expecting. Cue the parental uproar, and Taehyung's epic meltdown, my parents reckoned that he needs a man by his side to raise his kid. —

 

Absolute hogwash! How many folks out there, single-handedly raising their offspring? Taehyung's been a lone ranger, doing it all on his own. Just crashed at mine for a bit during some apartment jazz. Once it's sorted, he and Misul are out —

 

Our Parents are still giving him the silent treatment, but I'm damn proud. So what if he skipped the wedding bells before the baby? It's his call! The dude he was with, from what I gather, was decent. It's a Shame he's clueless about Misul.

 

"Can't blame him, as Taehyung pulled the plug. Poor guy doesn't know Taehyung's still pining for him."

 

"He's still waiting?" Jungkook's incredulous voice cuts through the air.

 

Yoongi turns to Jungkook, his expression a mix of resignation and bitterness.

 

"Believe it or not, my brother thinks I prayed for Misul to look like me instead of his dad. Nutcase!" Jungkook erupts into laughter at the revelation.

 

"Certifiable, that's what he is," Yoongi mutters, downing his drink in one swift motion.

 

"What's Misul aware of?" Jungkook inquires.

 

"Pretty much everything, except maybe the name of the father ," Yoongi shrugs.

 

"I'm gonna pay him a visit," Jungkook declares, rising from his seat.

 

"HEY! I want in on the gossip, but that's where I draw the line!"

 

Yoongi interjects,his tone laced with a hint of annoyance

 

"I must see him, Yoongi!" Jungkook exclaimed,barely containing his joy despite his attempt at a reasonable tone.

 

"Why?" Yoongi's brow furrowed in confusion

 

"You're a good guy, Yoongi. But sometimes you're just plain dense!" Jungkook grinned, teasingly.

 

Yoongi stared at him for a moment, then it hit him like a ton of bricks. "It's you!"

 

"Yes!" Jungkook beamed, already starting to make his way out.

 

"What about your wife?" Yoongi's tone shifted, a hint of concern seeping in for his brother's well-being.

 

"Don't have one. Never did!" Jungkook shrugged, nonchalant.

 

A smile broke across Yoongi's face as he grabbed his keys, tossing them to Jungkook. 

"You might need these."

 

Jungkook let himself into Yoongi's apartment, the sound of Taehyung and Misul's voices guiding him. Following the sound, he found them in the bedroom, Misul holding a Spiderman toy Jungkook had given him.

 

"Mama, I want to get Koo a gift because he got me this," Misul chirped, his excitement palpable.

 

"What do you want to give him?" Taehyung asked, his smile reflecting the happiness of finally connecting Misul with his father.

 

"I don't know. Tomorrow, I'll inquire about his favorite superhero, and then we can buy him that," Misul mused aloud.

 

"He's into Iron Man," Taehyung recalled, reminiscing about Jungkook's fascination with the armored Avenger.

 

"How do you know Koo's into Iron Man?" Misul inquired, a frown creasing his forehead.

 

"I just do. And don't use his name," Taehyung cautioned.

 

"Well, what should I call him then?" Misul queried, still wearing a puzzled expression.

 

"Appa, Dad, Daddy, Pa—whatever you prefer," Jungkook interjected as he entered the room.

 

"Why should I call you dad?" Misul chimed in, rising from his seat on the bed simultaneously with Taehyung.

 

"Because I am your father," Jungkook asserted.

 

Misul turned to Taehyung in disbelief, while Taehyung watched Jungkook, tears welling in his eyes.

 

"Mama, is he really my dad?" Misul sought confirmation, turning to Tae for reassurance.

 

Taehyung nodded silently, his gaze fixed on Jungkook, who was now smiling through his tears.

 

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?" Misul's voice trembled with hurt, his lower lip quivering.

 

"Because your silly Mama never informed me, thinking I was married. I only found out when your uncle told me," Jungkook explained, casting a fond glance at Taehyung and Misul.

 

Taehyung gasped in astonishment.

 

"Come here!" Jungkook beckoned to Misul, opening his arms wide. Misul glanced at Taehyung for approval, receiving a nod, he rushed into Jungkook's embrace. Jungkook lifted him up, holding him close as they both shed tears of joy.

 

Later, Jungkook prepared to depart, turning to Misul with a proposition.

 "Why don't you hang out here for a bit while I chat with your Mama outside?"

 

Misul's expression turned crestfallen.

 "Just five minutes," Jungkook assured him.

 

"Okay. But hurry," Misul implored.

 

"I will," Jungkook promised, planting a kiss on Misul's forehead before leaving the room. 

 

Once outside, Jungkook confronted Taehyung, his voice laced with anger.

 

 "How could you ever think that my niece was more important to me than my own son?"

 

"I never did," Taehyung responded, his tone sincere

"When I discovered I was pregnant, I called you to share the news.But someone else answered your phone,informing me you were at a wedding reception.Assuming you'd married,I didn't want to add to your burden by mentioning Misul."

 

Jungkook, his expression pained, confides, 

"I never wed, Taehyung. I made it clear to Somi I wouldn't marry Sana, urging her not to settle for a man who imposed conditions on her and their child. When Somi understood, she gave Minji an ultimatum, leading him to realize his deep love for her. He then married her; the reception was Somi's, not mine."

 

Understanding dawns on Taehyung, "Oh, I see."

 

"What about your parents?" Taehyung inquires.

 

"They were initially upset, but after Sana's marriage, they began pressuring me to settle down. For a year now, they've been urging me to find you and marry you, fearing I'd be alone."

 

"FIVE MINUTES UP!" Misul shouts from the other room.

 

"It's only been 2 MINUTES, Misul!" Taehyung retorts, eliciting a chuckle from Jungkook.

 

"Feels like five!" Misul grumbles.

 

"He takes after you," Taehyung remarks, smiling as he grasps Jungkook's hand.

 

"Really?"

 

"Absolutely! Don't you see his Spiderman obsession? It's like déjà vu."

 

"I was never obsessed with Iron Man!" Jungkook protests.

 

"Do you still have your Iron Man collections?" Taehyung teases, prompting Jungkook's dignified silence and Taehyung's laughter.

 

"FIVE MINUTES!"

 

"Coming!" Jungkook calls back, laughing. As he heads towards the room, Taehyung halts him by gripping his hand, 

 

"Jungkook, we're getting married, right?"

 

Jungkook beams at Taehyung, overflowing with love, and poses the question,

 

 "Where would you like to tie the knot? Here or in Seoul?"

 

 

----------

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 4: —♡ ꜱɪʟᴇɴᴛ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ♡—

Summary:

where —
Jungkook marries Taehyung but discovers on their wedding night that Taehyung is mute. Furious and feeling betrayed, Jungkook struggles with his hatred for lies while trying to understand Taehyung’s silence.

 

---

 

Taehyung sat in his new bedroom, overwhelmed with nervous excitement. When he heard the door open, he quickly sat up, his heart pounding. He had married Jeon Jungkook on that day. Despite having met him only once before the wedding, Taehyung had fallen deeply in love. How could he not? Jungkook had embraced him despite his flaws and was the answer to his parents' earnest prayers for the perfect husband.

 

Taehyung felt Jungkook settle on the bed opposite him and gently lift his veil. He then heard a nervous chuckle and blushed, realizing that Jungkook was just as anxious as he was.

 

"The rituals and ceremonies felt never-ending," Jungkook remarked with a light laugh.

 

Taehyung smiled in response.

 

"So, Taehyung..." Jungkook said, taking Taehyung's hand. The touch sent a shiver down Taehyung's spine.

 

"You're happy, aren't you?" Jungkook asked. Taehyung nodded shyly.

 

Jungkook's smile widened as he added, "Are you so shy that you can’t even say 'yes'?"

 

Taehyung looked at him, puzzled. Jungkook continued, "Say something. I can’t believe I’m married and haven’t heard my wife’s voice yet. At least say my name."

 

Taehyung looked at him in panic. Didn’t he know? Why was he speaking like this?

 

"Taehyung... say something."

 

Taehyung's eyes filled with tears as his heart and mind cried out.

 

“What’s wrong, Taehyung?” Jungkook asked, confused and slightly worried as he saw Taehyung’s tears.

 

When Taehyung continued to cry, Jungkook asked anxiously, “What is it? Do you want me to get my mother?” Without waiting for a response, he started to get up from the bed, but Taehyung grabbed his hand.

 

Jungkook looked at him and asked again, “Please, tell me what’s the matter.”

 

Taehyung pointed to his tongue and then waved his hand in front of him to indicate “no.”

 

Jungkook stared at him in horror and asked, “You can’t speak?”

 

Taehyung nodded in affirmation.

 

“Why didn’t you tell us this before?” Jungkook asked, his frustration growing.

 

Taehyung began to use sign language.

 

“I don’t understand sign language!” Jungkook said, irritated.

 

Taehyung looked at him in panic, struggling to find a way to communicate.

 

Jungkook got up from the bed and angrily walked toward the door, with Taehyung rushing to follow him.

 

“Dad! Mom!” Jungkook shouted as he ran down the stairs, Taehyung trailing behind him.

 

“What’s wrong?” Mr.Jeon asked, emerging from his room with Mrs. Jeon. Soon, the entire family, including Jungkook’s sister Lisa and Aunt, gathered with the servants.

 

“ He can’t talk!” Jungkook announced.

 

“WHAT?” Mrs. Jeon exclaimed in shock.

 

Seeing the stunned expressions of everyone, Taehyung looked around in panic. No one knew.

 

“And they hid such a big thing from us?” Aunt asks furiously.

 

Taehyung shakes his head, unable to express himself.

 

“Cheating!” Mr. Jeon exclaims, outraged.

 

“John!” Jungkook shouts.

 

“Yes, sir?”

 

“Bring his things from my room.”

 

“What are you going to do?” Mrs. Jeon asks, confused.

 

“Take him back to his house,” Jungkook tells her. Feeling Taehyung holding his hand, he turns to look at him. Taehyung is giving him a pleading look.

 

“I can never tolerate liars. And this is cheating,” Jungkook says furiously. Then, looking behind him, he adds, “Keep it in the car.”

 

Taehyung turns to see a man carrying all his bags and walking out. He feels Jungkook taking hold of his hand, and Jungkook walks out furiously with Taehyung running behind him. Taehyung turns to look at his in-laws with a pleading expression, asking them for help, but they remain silent, standing where they are.

 

Jungkook stops the car in front of Taehyung’s house and starts taking his bags from the trunk while Taehyung remains in the car, in shock.

 

Jungkook opens the door and says angrily, “Get out!”

 

Mr. Kim opens the door upon hearing the insistent ringing.

 

“Taehyung? Jungkook? What are you doing here?” Mr.Kim asks, worried.

 

Hearing him, Mrs. Kim hurries out. Seeing a crying Taehyung and a furious Jungkook, she holds Taehyung’s hand and asks, “What happened, Taehyung?”

 

Taehyung continues to cry.

 

“Did you think you could hide the truth from us, and I would just accept him because I married him?” Jungkook asks furiously.

 

“What truth?” Mr. Kim asks, confused.

 

“That he can’t speak!” Jungkook responds, his frustration evident.

 

“You know, right?” Mrs. Kim asks, also confused.

 

“We told you everything, didn’t we?” Mr. Kim asks, his worry growing.

 

“Such liars!” Jungkook says in disgust. Dropping the bags there, he walks out.

 

He was about to open the gate when he felt Taehyung hold his hand. He turns back to him furiously, but Taehyung is looking at him with a pleading, begging expression. Jungkook looks away, slowly removes Taehyung’s hand, and walks out.

 

It’s been three days, and Jungkook still can’t get Taehyung’s pleading look out of his mind. 

 

Every time he closes his eyes, he sees Taehyung looking at him with those desperate eyes, begging him to understand. His parents had tried calling him multiple times, but he hadn’t answered. His father had told him that Taehyung’s father had come to see him, but he wasn’t in the mood to hear any explanations. Jungkook sighs as he tries to get back to work, but Taehyung’s face continues to haunt him. Finally giving up, he gets up and leaves.

 

Mr. Kim opened the door to find Jungkook standing there.

 

"Jungkook?" Mr. Kim said in surprise.

 

"I need to talk to Taehyung," Jungkook said.

 

"Come inside," Mr. Kim said, ushering him in.

 

 "We were under the impression that you already knew."

 

"I’d like to speak with Taehyung first," Jungkook insisted.

 

Mr. Kim nodded, and Mrs. Kim led Jungkook to Taehyung’s room. She opened the door, and Jungkook followed her in, finding Taehyung standing at the window, looking out.

 

"Taehyung..." Mrs. Kim called softly.

 

From behind, Jungkook saw Taehyung quickly wipe away his tears before turning around. Seeing his distress filled him with guilt.

 

"Jungkook wants to talk to you," Mrs. Kim informed Taehyung, who looked at him in shock.

 

Mrs. Kim left, and Jungkook closed the door behind her. He walked toward Taehyung, who took a few hesitant steps forward.

 

"I couldn’t get your face out of my mind," Jungkook said. "You were trying to tell me something, and I’m here to listen."

 

Taehyung looked at him in shock. He then glanced around the room, spotted a notepad, and quickly wrote something down. When he finished, he handed the note to Jungkook.

 

"We had asked the marriage broker to inform you about me, and he told us he did. Papa tried to tell you when you came, but somehow the conversation was brushed aside. We thought you knew."

 

Jungkook read the note and recalled the conversation Taehyung had mentioned.

 

Me.Jeon : "Since both of them like each other, we should finalise a wedding date."

 

Mr. Kim: "Bogum assured me that he informed you about Taehyung, but I wanted to make sure you were fully aware."

 

Bogum interjected: "I conveyed everything to them, and there are no issues. We need to set a wedding date before the auspicious time expires."

 

Mr. Kim: "But still—"

 

Me.Jeon : "He’s right. He’s informed us, and there’s no point in dragging this out. We’ll schedule a wedding date."

 

Jungkook closed his eyes, remembering that conversation. They had tried to explain, but he had dismissed their words as lies.

 

"We were told that you had failed your master’s exams and were deeply embarrassed about it. We assumed that was what your father was trying to convey," Jungkook said.

 

Taehyung looked at him in shock, then hurried to his desk and began frantically searching through his belongings. Jungkook watched as he retrieved a certificate and handed it to him. He read aloud: "M.Sc. Mathematics, 2nd Rank," and gave a humourless chuckle.

 

Jungkook handed the certificate back and sighed.

 

 "Gather your things. We’re going home."

 

Taehyung looked at him in disbelief and then quickly took out his notepad to write something. Jungkook read the note he handed him:

 

"I just wanted you to know that we didn’t deceive you. I understand that I’m not the type of spouse you wanted or needed. You don’t have to compromise your life for me. You should marry someone who will make you happy."

 

Jungkook looked up from the note, then tore it up and let the pieces fall to the ground. " Let's go ”

 

Taehyung looks up at him in shock, then turns to write something again when Jungkook gently holds his hand. Taehyung looks at him, surprised.

 

" Jeon Taehyung ," Jungkook calls softly with a smile, and Taehyung gazes at him in astonishment. "I know my behaviour might have made you uneasy, but let me assure you, I’m not all bad."

 

Taehyung stares at him, wide-eyed, as Jungkook continues, "I’m sorry for how I acted. I should’ve let you explain before I hurt you like that."

 

Tears well up in Taehyung's eyes, and he shakes his head, indicating no. 

 

"You’ve cried enough, and I don’t want to see you cry anymore, okay?"

 

Taehyung nods in reply. Jungkook gently wipes away his tears, then cups his face and places a tender kiss on his forehead. With eyes closed in relief and joy, Taehyung smiles before happily embracing Jungkook. A chuckle escapes Jungkook as he hugs him back, smiling warmly.

 

"Pack your things," Jungkook tells him. Taehyung points at his bags with a smile, revealing that he had never unpacked. Grinning, Jungkook walks over to his bags and picks them up.

 

Jungkook opens the door and starts to walk out when Taehyung grabs his hand. Jungkook turns back with a smile, and Taehyung, shyly smiling, shows him his closed fist. Then, he raises his index finger, stretches out his thumb, and finally his pinkie.

 

"I don’t understand sign language, Taehyung," Jungkook says with a gentle smile.

 

Taehyung grins widely, noticing his parents approaching with concern. Without missing a beat, he touches the side of his forehead with his fingertips.

 

"Taehyung..." Jungkook chuckles softly.

 

"He said, 'I know,'" Mr. Kim interjects, smiling as he watches their exchange, happy to see both of them smiling and Jungkook holding Taehyung’s bags.

 

Jungkook’s smile widens. "Oh! And what did he say before that?"

 

Mr. Kim turns to Taehyung, who immediately begins signing again.

 

"He’s saying you’ll understand one day," Mrs. Kim explains with a warm smile.

 

Jungkook grins, glancing at Taehyung with admiration. "I like that. He’s got spirit." He then turns to Mr. and Mrs. Kim. "We were told he had failed his exams. I’m starting to think Mr. Bogum lied for his own benefit. Now that everything’s clear, I want to take him home."

 

"He is your husband," Mr. Kim replies, smiling approvingly.

 

Jungkook smiles at the acknowledgement, though his tone softens with regret. "I behaved poorly that day, jumping to conclusions without knowing the truth. I owe you all an apology."

 

"You earned our forgiveness when you made the effort to come here and learn the truth," Mrs. Kim reassures him with a kind smile.

 

As they step into Jungkook’s home, their smiles are interrupted by the sight of his family waiting inside, less than welcoming.

 

"Jungkook... why is he here?" Mr. Jeon asks, frowning deeply.

 

"I brought Taehyung home, Dad. Just like us, they were misled," Jungkook explains, recounting everything.

 

"So, you brought him here?" his aunt questions with a raised brow.

 

"Yes," Jungkook responds, his expression tightening at the odd tone.

 

"Jungkook, he can’t speak," Mrs. Jeon says in a soft, almost hesitant voice.

 

"He’s my husband," Jungkook replies firmly, feeling Taehyung’s hand slip into his. Jungkook squeezes it gently, offering reassurance.

 

"But, Jungkook, think about how you’ll live with someone like him," Mr. Jeon presses, concern seeping into his voice.

 

"There’s absolutely nothing wrong with Taehyung, Dad."

 

"But he can’t talk!" his aunt exclaims, disbelief clear in her voice.

 

"That doesn’t make him any less of a person," Jungkook replies, his voice sharp with conviction, anger simmering beneath his calm demeanour.

 

"You’re ruining your life, Jungkook," Mr. Jeon tells him sternly.

 

"I’m not. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I abandoned Taehyung."

 

"You’re doing this out of pity, but Jungkook, you have your whole life ahead of you," Mrs. Jeon adds, her voice laced with concern.

 

"This isn’t pity, Mom. I care about Taehyung, and I want to be with him for the rest of my life," Jungkook replies firmly. Then, in a tone signaling the end of the conversation, he adds, "I’m hungry, Mom. Please ask Dandi to get dinner ready for Taehyung and me."

 

With that, Jungkook walks off, still holding Taehyung’s hand, while Taehyung casts cautious glances back at the family. Their expressions revealed their unease, something he could clearly see. He understood their apprehension, silently hoping they would accept him in time.

 

"They’ll need a little time, Taehyung," Jungkook says gently as he sets down Taehyung’s bags. Taehyung nods, offering a small, understanding smile.

 

"You should rest. I’ll take a quick shower and be right back," Jungkook tells him. Taehyung nods again, and as Jungkook heads towards the bathroom, he turns back with a playful smile. "Now that you’re staying for good, you might want to start unpacking."

 

Hearing that, Taehyung beams, and Jungkook grins in return.

 

Dinner was a quiet affair. His parents kept casting worried glances their way, his sister appeared blissfully unaware of the tension, and his aunt threw furious glares at Taehyung. Despite all of this, Taehyung sat with his head held high, bolstered by the fact that his husband held his hand beneath the table the entire time.

 

Much later, Taehyung watched as Jungkook locked the door and walked over to the bed. He climbed in, and Jungkook soon joined him. They lay next to each other, staring at the ceiling, their hearts racing as they became fully aware of their close physical proximity. 

 

Slowly, they turned to face one another, their eyes locking with a passion that neither could deny. Noticing the soft blush creeping across Taehyung’s cheeks, Jungkook swiftly rolled over on top of him, gazing down while Taehyung held his breath. Slowly, Jungkook leaned in, gently capturing Taehyung’s lips in a tender kiss.

 

-------

 

The next morning, Taehyung stirred, feeling a warm weight beside him. He opened his eyes to find his husband lying so close, their shoulders touching, Jungkook’s face nestled in the crook of his neck. Blushing as memories of their intimacy from the night before flooded back, Taehyung shyly pushed him off, gently rolling him onto his back before getting up. 

 

After his bath, Taehyung headed to the kitchen and made coffee for Jungkook. Unsure of his exact preferences, he took a guess and brewed what he hoped would be to his liking. Returning to the room, Taehyung placed the coffee mug on the bedside table, sitting next to Jungkook and watching him sleep. His heart was full. He had once thought their relationship was over, that Jungkook had abandoned him. But here he was, having come back for him, holding his hand and walking beside him through the journey of life. Taehyung couldn’t have loved him more for the unwavering support he had shown.

 

His family’s coldness toward him did sting, but in that moment, Taehyung was too wrapped up in the love and care Jungkook had given him to worry about anything else. Leaning down, he gently kissed Jungkook on the forehead. Jungkook stirred, frowning slightly before opening his eyes. Seeing Taehyung, he smiled softly and closed his eyes again.

 

"I forgot I was married," Jungkook teased with a grin. "For a second, I was wondering who dared to kiss me."

 

Taehyung laughed at Jungkook’s playful remark. 

 

Jungkook wrapped his arms around Taehyung’s waist, pulling him close. Taehyung quickly picked up the coffee mug and handed it to him. With a dramatic sigh, Jungkook let him go, taking the coffee from his hands.

 

"I have to go to the office today, but I’ll come back early," Jungkook said, and Taehyung smiled.

 

"Did you have your coffee?"

 

Taehyung nodded.

 

"Next time, bring yours too. We’ll drink it together," Jungkook added with a grin as he sipped his coffee.

 

After breakfast, Jungkook left for the office with his father, Mr. Jeon. Taehyung tried to strike up a conversation with Mrs. Jeon, but his aunt quickly intervened, making it clear that Taehyung was seen as an unwanted burden—someone they planned to push out of Jungkook’s life once he “came to his senses.” Taehyung chose not to let it bother him. He trusted Jungkook more than his aunt's cruel words, and as Jungkook had often reminded him, not being able to speak didn’t make him any less of a person.

 

Sensing his mother-in-law’s discomfort around him, Taehyung decided to spend most of his time in the room, leaving only when absolutely necessary. He was sitting on the bed, watching TV, when his phone buzzed with a message from Jungkook.

 

**🐰 :** How’s it going?

 

** 🐯 :** Good.

 

**🐰 :** No idea why, but I’m missing you terribly.

 

Taehyung blushed and quickly replied.  

 

**🐯 :** Come home soon.

 

** 🐰 :** I’ll be home by 6. Be ready, we’ll go book shopping.

 

** 🐯 :** Books?

 

** 🐰 :** Yup. Work… gotta go. 

 

That evening, Taehyung dressed up and waited for Jungkook to return. When Jungkook finally walked into the room, he found Taehyung wearing a beautiful yellow anarkali. Taehyung’s face lit up the moment their eyes met, and Jungkook walked towards him with a charming, sexy smile.

 

"You ready?"

 

Taehyung nodded.

 

"I’ll just freshen up quickly," Jungkook said, walking toward the bathroom.

 

As Taehyung noticed Jungkook’s laptop bag on the couch, he thought to place it on the table. But just as he bent down to pick it up, he suddenly felt Jungkook’s hand on his waist, turning him around. 

 

Taehyung looked up at him, curiosity in his eyes, and before he could react, Jungkook captured his lips in a deep, passionate kiss. 

 

Taehyung kissed him back with equal intensity. Slowly, they broke the kiss, and Jungkook grinned at him before casually heading into the bathroom, leaving Taehyung smiling to himself.

 

Later, they walked into the bookstore together.

 

Taehyung signed to Jungkook:  

**Do you read a lot?**

 

Jungkook gave him a look and teased, "First, let me grab a sign language book, then you can ask me all these questions."

 

Taehyung grinned, feeling a little embarrassed, then broke into a full smile as he realized why they were there. He loved how Jungkook treated him. The fact that he couldn’t speak wasn’t a big deal to Jungkook. To him, Taehyung’s inability to speak was no different than his own inability to understand sign language—not a flaw, not a burden, just a part of who they were.

 

"Taehyung, which one do you think is better?" Jungkook asks, holding up two books on sign language.

 

Taehyung glances through both carefully and selects the one he believes is more accurate.

 

"Do you want to pick out any books for yourself?" Jungkook asks, and Taehyung nods, wandering through the aisles as Jungkook quietly follows behind.

 

After finishing their shopping, they head to a nearby restaurant for dinner.

 

"I was googling sign language at the office today," Jungkook says, a wide grin spreading across his face. Taehyung looks up at him, returning a small smile.

 

"And guess what I found when I checked Google Images?" Jungkook continues, still grinning.

 

Taehyung's heart begins to race, wondering if Jungkook discovered what he had confessed the day before.

 

"One of the images was the sign for 'I love you' in sign language," Jungkook says with a playful smile.

 

Taehyung feels a wave of nervous panic wash over him as Jungkook makes a fist, then extends his index finger, thumb, and pinkie to form the sign.

 

Taehyung blushes deeply, watching him make the gesture.

 

“So, should I say it in your language or mine?” Jungkook asks, grinning widely.

 

Later, Jungkook and Taehyung walk into the room. Jungkook locks the door while Taehyung approaches the dressing table.

 

As Taehyung removes his earrings, Jungkook embraces him from behind. Taehyung shyly turns around to face him. 

 

Jungkook caresses his cheek, his gaze lingering on Taehyung's lips with desire. He leans down, and Taehyung meets him halfway. They kiss passionately, frantically removing each other’s clothes.

 

“Taehyung...” 

 

Taehyung turns to look at him. Jungkook is leaning on his elbow, watching him intently. He says “I love you” in sign language, and Taehyung smiles happily, tears welling in his eyes.

 

“I’m not sure how or when it happened. Maybe it was when our marriage was arranged, or when I married you, or the way you shyly smiled at me on our wedding night. Perhaps it was when you looked at me with those pleading eyes as I was leaving, or the way you smiled when I returned, or the first time I kissed you. It could have been when you woke me up with a kiss today, or when I realized what you had told me yesterday. I don’t know exactly when, but I feel it deeply, in every part of me. So does it really matter when?”

 

Taehyung shakes his head and smiles at him through his tears.

 

“Tell me, Taehyung.”

 

Taehyung signs to him: *I love you.*

 

Jungkook leans down and kisses Taehyung.

 

“This is more complicated than maths,” Jungkook says, having learned the signs from a book.

 

Taehyung chuckles at this as he walks toward Jungkook, drying his hair. He sits next to Jungkook, who is still trying to master the signs from the book. Taehyung smiles, noticing that Jungkook has been diligently studying for over a week and has made significant progress. However, Jungkook seems to wish he could instantly learn every sign.

 

Taehyung signs to him: *You are doing really well.*

 

“What am I?” Jungkook asks, flipping through the book in a panic. Taehyung laughs softly and affectionately ruffles his hair before getting up from the bed.

 

“Oh, thank you, Taehyung,” Jungkook says with a proud smile as he figures out his message.

 

Taehyung grins at him and exits the room. He had tried to help his mother-in-law in the kitchen the day before. Although his mother-in-law appeared to be softening towards him, Aunt would always enter and criticise him for ruining Jungkook’s life. Taehyung ignored her harsh words without a second thought.

 

“TAEHYUNG!” Jungkook calls out from the room. When he doesn’t get an immediate response, he calls again, “TAEHYUNG!” and then once more, “TAEHYUNG!”

 

He hears the door swing open and looks up to see Taehyung glaring at him. Taehyung gestures towards his mouth, shakes his thumb to indicate "no," then points to his ears and gives a thumbs-up.

 

Jungkook cheekily grins at him and says, "I thought you didn't hear. Your parents are calling you on Skype."

 

Taehyung, smiling happily, hurries to get his iPad and turns it on. He starts chatting joyfully with his parents while Jungkook tries to follow the conversation to learn sign language. In the end, he simply gives up as their speed is too much for him. He has to rely on his book.

 

The next day, Jungkook comes to their room after work.

 

"Taehyung... show me your hand."

 

Taehyung, with a curious look, gives him his hand. Jungkook places a watch on it. 

 

Taehyung looks at his watch with a smile when Jungkook presses a button on his own watch, causing it to start beeping. Taehyung excitedly looks at Jungkook’s watch.

 

"This way, if you want to call me or answer when I call you, you can use this," Jungkook explains with a smile. He then adds cheekily, "This way you don't have to scream at me."

 

Taehyung laughs and then signs to him, "Thank you."

 

Jungkook, grinning, replies back to him in sign language, "You’re welcome. You’re doing well. Thank you.”

 

-

 

Things were going smoothly for Jungkook and Taehyung, though Taehyung was being treated like an outcast, he still didn’t tell Jungkook about it. They were happy with each other and madly in love, and Jungkook was getting good at sign language.

 

—

 

“Taehyung...” Jungkook calls out from the bathroom.

 

Taehyung turns to look at him.

 

“Pass the towel.”

 

Taehyung takes the towel and walks towards the bathroom. He offers it to Jungkook, who looks at him for a moment before pulling him inside the bathroom. Taehyung gasps in shock and struggles to free himself as Jungkook places the towel on the rack and pulls him into the shower.

 

Taehyung looks at Jungkook and gets lost in his eyes, as Jungkook gazes at him intensely. Jungkook pulls Taehyung closer and starts kissing him while trying to remove his clothes.

 

Jungkook leans back, helping Taehyung get back to his feet. Taehyung shyly smiles at him with a contented expression, and Jungkook grins back. Then he leans down and kisses him again, pulling him under the shower and letting the water run between them.

 

Jungkook grabs the towel before Taehyung can and wraps it around his waist as he walks out. Taehyung pokes his head out of the bathroom and bangs on the door.

 

“Give me the towel.”

 

Jungkook retrieves a towel and passes it to Taehyung. Taehyung dries himself off and again pokes his head out, banging on the door. Jungkook, buttoning his shirt, turns to look at him.

 

“Pass my clothes.”

 

“Come out and get them,” Jungkook replies.

 

“ Please ”

 

"We were just naked in there, and now you’re shy?" Jungkook asked with a grin.

 

"I am shy. Please, just pass me my clothes. At least pass me a bathrobe," Taehyung pleaded.

 

"Oh my gosh! I can't keep up if you speak so fast. Either slow down or break it down," Jungkook said.

 

"Pass me my clothes!" Taehyung repeated, more urgently.

 

"No," Jungkook said with a smirk.

 

Taehyung sighed, wrapping a towel around himself and stepping out slowly. Jungkook ignored him, and as Taehyung grabbed his clothes and started running toward the bathroom, Jungkook pounced on him and held him back.

 

Taehyung looked at him shyly as he struggled. Jungkook nipped at his shoulder, and Taehyung hugged him, blushing.

 

"In the bathroom, huh, Taehyung?" Jungkook grinned widely, making Taehyung blush even more. "I never thought I was such a flirt," he chuckled. Then he added, "I love you, Taehyung."

 

Taehyung smiled at him. "I feel the same."

 

Jungkook's face lit up with happiness as he kissed him.

 

Later, at breakfast with the rest of the family, Jungkook called out to Taehyung. "Taehyung?"

 

Taehyung turned to him with a smile.

 

"Earlier, it was fun, right?" Jungkook teased.

 

Taehyung’s eyes widened, and his cheeks flushed with heat.

 

"Maybe we should bathe like this every day," Jungkook suggested with a wink.

 

"Shut up!" Taehyung hissed, turning completely pink and kicking him under the table.

 

"What's the hurry? Tomorrow," Jungkook teased further.

 

"What? Just shut up!" Taehyung responded, flustered.

 

Seeing Taehyung’s embarrassment, Jungkook chuckled and turned back to his family, who were watching him with frowns. He simply smiled at them and resumed eating.

 

Noticing the tense atmosphere, Jungkook finally asked, "Is everything alright?"

 

Lisa looked up at him with a sad pout, while his parents and Aunt looked at him with disapproval.

 

"What happened?" Jungkook asked them.

 

"Ask your sister," Mrs. Jeon said, clearly irritated.

 

"Lisa, what happened?" Jungkook inquired.

 

"Ask them... because I can't understand their stance," Lisa replied.

 

"Huh?" Jungkook looked confused and turned to Taehyung. "What is happening here?"

 

Taehyung shrugged.

 

"Mom?" Jungkook looked at his mother for answers.

 

"She wants to marry a dancer," Mrs. Jeon accuses.

 

Jungkook turns to Lisa.  

"I love him," she declares firmly.

 

"He's a dancer," Mrs. Jeon says again, her tone sharp. "And you should have seen the scene she caused yesterday."

 

"Yesterday?" Jungkook frowns.  

" She threatened us—said she’d elope."  

 

"WHAT?" Jungkook is outraged. "All this happened, and no one thought to tell me?" He then turns to Taehyung, his voice softening. "Why didn’t you tell me?"  

 

"And what is he supposed to say?" Aunt chimes in, her voice laced with disgust.

 

"I'm talking to my husband. Please don't interrupt," Jungkook retorts, his anger rising. He then looks at Taehyung, searching his face.  

"I didn't know," Taehyung says quietly.

 

"How could you not know? You've been here all day!" Jungkook presses, frustration creeping into his voice.

 

"I didn’t know," Taehyung repeats, his voice barely above a whisper.

 

"He doesn’t know because no one talks to him when you’re not around," Lisa suddenly interjects, her words cutting through the tension like a knife.

 

Jungkook turns to Lisa, stunned by her revelation, then looks back at Taehyung. "Is that true?"

 

Taehyung swallows hard, his silence confirming Lisa’s words.

 

"Why didn’t you ever tell me, Taehyung?" Jungkook asks, hurt creeping into his voice. He then faces his parents, disbelief written across his face. "You two don’t talk to him?"

 

His parents lower their heads in shame, unable to meet his eyes.  

 

"Why? Why, Mom? Dad?" he demands, his voice trembling with emotion.  

 

"And Lisa, you too?"  

 

"Aunt wouldn’t let me," Lisa admits, her voice heavy with frustration. "She kept saying Taehyung was a curse on our family."

 

Jungkook stands abruptly, his anger palpable as he glares at Aunt, his eyes burning with fury.

 

"Did you call my husband a curse?"  

 

Taehyung quickly grasps Jungkook's hand, shaking it frantically, trying to calm him.  

"You stay quiet, Taehyung!"  

 

"Look at him! He's gone mad, telling him to keep quiet!" Aunt snaps angrily.  

 

"What the hell is your problem?" Jungkook explodes. "Taehyung can’t speak up, but neither he nor I have any issue with that. Why are you so fixated on it?"  

 

"You deserve better than him!" Aunt retorts.  

 

"There is no one better than my Taehyung!" Jungkook declares furiously. "You disgust me, Aunt."  

 

He ignores Taehyung’s attempts to calm him down and turns toward his parents. "If you didn’t know this already, then let me make it clear—I love him, and he is my life. I can’t live without him. So, treat him with the respect he deserves. If anyone dares to hurt him again, I won’t forgive them."  

 

Jungkook storms off in anger, and Taehyung hurries after him.  

 

Taehyung nervously enters their room, finding Jungkook pacing back and forth, still fuming. Jungkook whirls around, his voice laced with frustration. "Why didn’t you tell me you were being treated like this?"  

 

"They need time to accept me," Taehyung signs quietly.

 

Jungkook glares at him, his anger not easing. Taehyung steps closer, gently holding Jungkook’s hand in one of his own, while placing his other hand softly on Jungkook’s cheek.  

 

"This is not okay, Taehyung. They shouldn’t have treated you like this."  

 

"Maybe I didn’t try hard enough," Taehyung signs, his expression thoughtful.  

 

Jungkook frowns, studying him carefully.  

 

"They needed time, and I just gave it to them. I never really tried to talk to them," Taehyung admits.

 

Jungkook’s gaze softens.

 

"Give me a chance," Taehyung continues. "I’ll try talking to Mom tomorrow."  

 

"Okay," Jungkook sighs. "But if anyone mistreats you again, you have to tell me."  

 

"I will," Taehyung signs with a nod.

 

The next day, Taehyung heads to the kitchen, where Mrs. Jeon is alone. She glances at him with a hesitant smile, and Taehyung responds with a broad, warm smile. Noticing Mrs. Jeon cutting vegetables, Taehyung gestures toward them and motions for the knife. Mrs. Jeon hands it to him, and he begins cutting alongside her.

 

After a while, Taehyung gently holds Mrs. Jeon’s hand and signs to her:  

*I’m sorry that Jungkook shouted at you yesterday.*

 

Mrs. Jeon looks confused, not understanding.  

 

Realising this, Taehyung tries again, using simpler gestures. He makes a circular motion with his hand, indicating the past.  

 

"Earlier? Yesterday?" Mrs. Jeon guessed.  

 

Taehyung nods with a smile. He then touches his Engagement Ring, signalling something important.  

 

" Ring ? Marriage? Wedding? Jungkook?" she asks, piecing it together.  

 

Taehyung nods again, his smile widening. Then, he makes an exaggerated angry face.  

 

"Angry?" Mrs. Jeon says, a hint of understanding dawning.  

 

Taehyung nods and then clasps his ears with a sorrowful expression.  

 

"Sorry?" Mrs. Jeon asks.  

 

Taehyung beams and nods.  

 

Mrs. Jeon smiles softly and says, "No... Jungkook was right. You’re his husband, and both Mr. Jeon and I have noticed how happy he’s been since you came into his life. But for some reason, we just didn’t accept you. I’m sorry."

 

Taehyung smiles gratefully and wraps Mrs. Jeon in a joyful hug. She happily hugs him back.

 

Later, while Taehyung is in his room, he hears a soft knock. Opening the door, he finds Lisa standing there.

 

"Can I come in?"  

 

Taehyung smiles and welcomes her in.  

 

"I always wanted to talk to you, but Aunt always stopped me," Lisa confides.  

 

Taehyung just continues to smile.  

 

"But when she confronted me about Mingyu, I realised she's not really concerned about our happiness. It's all her own prejudices."  

 

Taehyung remains silent, listening attentively.  

 

"So after talking to Jungkook, I realised I should follow my heart instead of her," Lisa explains. "I'm sorry, Taehyung."  

 

Taehyung takes her hand in a comforting gesture. They continue their conversation for a while before Taehyung finally asks her about Mingyu.  

 

"He's Dancer, and apparently, that's a big no," Lisa says, her voice tinged with sadness. "I can't understand why that's an issue. Did Jungkook say anything about it?"  

 

Taehyung shakes his head, indicating no.  

 

"Could you talk to him? Maybe ask him to help me?"  

 

Taehyung squeezes Lisa's hand, offering reassurance.  

 

The next few days were perfect for Taehyung, as everyone except Aunt had accepted him, and they genuinely seemed to care for him. He and Jungkook had even managed to convince his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Jeon, about Lisa's wedding. Everything was going smoothly when Taehyung suddenly realised that he had been feeling nauseous for the past three mornings. As Jungkook prepared for work, Taehyung sat on their bed, lost in thought, his hand resting on his stomach, wondering if their baby had quietly made its way into the world.  

 

Later, Taehyung goes to Mrs. Jeon and shares his suspicion. Concerned, Mrs. Jeon takes him to the doctor, where it's confirmed that Taehyung is indeed pregnant. Thrilled, Taehyung eagerly waits for Jungkook to return home so he can share the exciting news of their impending parenthood.

 

Finally, Jungkook arrives home, and Taehyung rushes over to him with excitement.

  

"I want to tell you something."  

 

"What is it?" Jungkook asks with a smile.  

 

Blushing, Taehyung takes Jungkook’s hand and places it gently on his stomach.  

 

"Are you hungry?" Jungkook asks, frowning in confusion.  

 

Taehyung looks at him, shocked, and shakes his head before placing Jungkook’s hand on his stomach again.  

 

"Stomach pain?" Jungkook asks, still puzzled.  

 

Taehyung stares at him in disbelief and then gestures to signify a baby.  

 

"You’ve had stomach pains since you were a baby?" Jungkook asks, completely misunderstanding.  

 

Frustrated, Taehyung stamps his foot, attempting to make him understand.  

 

"You want to take some medicine for the pain?" Jungkook asks again, still clueless.  

 

Now furious, Taehyung steps closer and mimics a kissing action, then points urgently to his stomach.  

 

"What? You’re saying you’re having stomach pain because we kissed this morning?" Jungkook responds, confused yet amused.  

 

Throwing his hands up in exasperation, Taehyung walks away in frustration. Chuckling, Jungkook follows, pulling him into a hug from behind.  

 

"So... is it a boy or a girl?" Jungkook teases, finally revealing that he knew all along.  

 

Taehyung turns around, eyes wide in surprise.

 

"I was starting to wonder whether I should be the one telling you about the baby."  

 

"You knew?"  

 

"Of course I did. You’ve been throwing up, and I noticed. I was going to say something, but then today, I saw you sitting with your hand on your stomach," Jungkook says, smiling.  

 

Taehyung looks at him, amazed, realizing that Jungkook had known even before he did.  

 

"Then when I called home earlier, Mrs. Kim told me that you and mom went to the hospital. When I walked in and saw the smile on your face, I knew we were pregnant."  

 

"So, you were making fun of me?"  

 

Jungkook grins mischievously. Taehyung happily hugs him.  

 

"GET OUT OF MY HOUSE NOW!" they suddenly hear Mrs. Jeon yelling. Alarmed by the shouting, Taehyung and Jungkook rush out of the room.  

 

"Mom? What happened?" Jungkook asks, seeing Mrs. Jeon furiously screaming at Aunt.  

 

Mrs. Jeon turns toward Jungkook and Taehyung, looking helpless.  

 

"What is it, Mom?"  

 

Taehyung hurries to her, taking her hand with concern.  

 

"Mrs. Jeon?" Mr. Jeon asks as he approaches them.  

 

Mrs. Jeon looks at Taehyung with tears in her eyes as she gently caresses his cheek.  

 

"What happened, Mom?"  

 

"She told me... to kill your baby," Mrs. Jeon says, her voice trembling.  

 

"WHAT?" Jungkook exclaims in shock, turning to glare at Aunt.  

 

Taehyung stares in disbelief.  

 

"She's saying that if Taehyung has this baby, then he’ll be here forever, so it’s better to kill the baby," Mrs. Jeon says angrily, glaring at her sister.  

 

"WHAT? How dare she?" Mr. Jeon demands furiously.  

 

"How did you even have the audacity to say something like that?" Jungkook asks, his voice shaking with rage.  

 

"Jungkook!" Aunt snaps in outrage. "You're so blinded by your love for him. Did you ever consider that his condition might be genetic and that your child could turn out to be... foolish?"

 

Jungkook watched as Taehyung’s eyes widened and he gasped silently.  

 

“If our baby can’t speak, then Taehyung and I will ensure he grows up strong and smart, just like Taehyung himself!” Jungkook declared firmly.  

 

“That would be cruelty to the baby,” Aunt countered coldly.  

 

“Shut up and get out of my house!” Jungkook shouted, his voice filled with determination.  

 

Aunt stared at him, stunned.  

 

“Either you leave, or I’ll throw you out myself,” Jungkook said, his tone leaving no room for argument.  

 

Seeing Taehyung about to speak, Jungkook interjected, “Do you want her to stay here, while we all worry about whether our baby is safe?”  

 

“She has to go,” Mr. Jeon agreed, addressing Taehyung. He then turned to Mrs. Jeon and added, “I’ll arrange for John to set up accommodations for her at the guest house, but from now on, she’s not to contact anyone here.”  

 

Jungkook’s watch buzzed persistently, but he ignored it as Taehyung tried to reach him. The buzzing continued, until the door creaked open and Taehyung entered.

 

“Did she leave?” Jungkook asked.  

 

“She’s on her way out. Come downstairs,” Taehyung responded.  

 

“No.”  

 

“Just tell her you forgive her,” Taehyung pleaded.  

 

“I don’t forgive her,” Jungkook said firmly.  

 

“Please, I don’t want her to curse our baby.”  

 

“Even if she curses, it won’t affect our baby. She’s mistaken. It’s none of her business who I marry, and she has no right to think like that about our child,” Jungkook reassured him.  

 

Taehyung looked at him, feeling helpless.  

 

“Come here,” Jungkook said gently, opening his arms.  

 

Taehyung moved into his embrace, finding comfort in his touch.  

 

“Do you think our baby won’t be able to talk?” Taehyung asked softly.  

 

“Will we love him any less or more if he can or cannot talk?” Jungkook replied with a warm smile.  

 

“No,” Taehyung answered, shaking his head.  

 

Jungkook’s smile grew. “It’s for the best that she leaves. Because of her, it took everyone here time to accept you. Now that they have, it’s best if she’s not around. You’ll be surrounded by people who truly care about you.”  

 

Taehyung nodded, realizing the truth in Jungkook’s words. Now, he was surrounded by those who loved and supported him.

 

---

 

— 6 years later

 

 

Jungkook helps a pregnant Taehyung onto the couch. Once Taehyung settles down, he sits beside him, and their son pounces on him excitedly. Jungkook settles the boy on his lap.

 

"You’re going to be a big brother now. You shouldn't sit on Papa's lap all the time," Mrs. Jeon says playfully.

 

"This is my Papa, and I'll sit on his lap!" Taegguk retorts, making Jungkook and Taehyung chuckle.

 

"Papa..." Taegguk calls out, and Jungkook turns to him.

 

"Yes, Taegguk?"

 

"How did the baby get inside Mommy's tummy?"

 

Taehyung’s eyes widen at the question, while Jungkook starts to chuckle.

 

"Did you kiss Mommy and is that how the baby got inside his tummy?"

 

Taehyung turns pink at the question and tries to cover Taegguk’s mouth with his hand, but he easily shrugs Taehyung off as Jungkook bursts out laughing.

 

"Who told you that?" Jungkook asks.

 

"My friend."

 

What are these primary school kids talking about these days? Jungkook wonders, then considers how to answer his son. 

 

"So is it true?" Taegguk asks.

 

"Yes," Jungkook replies, causing Lisa, Mr. Jeon, and Taehyung to gasp in surprise.

 

"Jungkook!" Lisa scolds.

 

Taehyung angrily hits Jungkook’s hand.

 

"What?" Jungkook asks, turning to Taehyung.

 

Did you want me to lie to him?

 

"Why do you want Papa to lie to me? Don’t you know lying is bad?" Taegguk asks Taehyung, frowning.

 

No.

 

Taegguk smiles at him.

 

"You tell him the truth, and he’ll be satisfied. Why lie unnecessarily?" Jungkook says to his mother.

 

"So you kiss to get pregnant?" Taegguk asks thoughtfully.

 

Jungkook starts to worry at his son's serious look and asks, "Are you planning to get anyone pregnant?"

 

"Yes," Taegguk replies confidently.

 

---

 

 

 

Chapter 5: — ♡ ʟᴏᴠᴇ ᴡɪɴꜱ ᴀʟʟ ♡—

Summary:

where Taehyung is left heartbroken when his fiance, Hyunbin, falls for someone else. To avoid scandal, Jungkook, Hyunbin’s cold and stoic older brother, marries Taehyung .

Notes:

Tags 💜:
— Top kook / Bottom Tae
— Arranged Marriage
— Jungkook is older than Taehyung
— Manipulation
— Fluff , romance
— Happy ending

 

 

---

 

 

Five-year-old Taehyung opened his eyes excitedly. Realizing it was morning, he jumped out of bed and ran to the bathroom to freshen up.

 

He dashed out of his room, eager to play with his new friends.

 

The Jeons had come to stay at their house for a vacation. Grandma Jeon Irene was best friends with his Grandma Kim Jieun. It was Grandma Jieun's 60th birthday, and she had returned to the village to celebrate. Both grandmas were catching up after decades, making it a lively reunion at Taehyung’s home.

 

“How come you’re up so early?” Sana asked, surprised as Taehyung rushed toward them.

 

Taehyung stopped and looked around, disappointed. “Where are Binnie and Kookie?”

 

“They’re still sleeping,” Jisoo informed him.

 

Taehyung’s face fell, his lips forming a pout.

 

Seeing this, Jisoo reassured him lovingly. “Don’t worry, sweetie. Jungkook will wake up soon. Hyunbin might take a little longer.”

 

“How long is ‘soon’?” Taehyung asked as he walked closer to them.

 

As if answering him, the bedroom door creaked open. Taehyung turned around excitedly to see Jungkook walking out.

 

“Kookie! You’re awake!” Taehyung exclaimed, running to him and wrapping his small arms around him.

 

Jungkook looked down at Taehyung, who barely reached his chest. At nine years old, Jungkook was already tall, while little Taehyung stood small at just five.

 

“Where’s Binnie?” Taehyung asked curiously.

 

“He’s still sleeping,” Jungkook replied.

 

“Hmmm... let’s go play!” Taehyung said enthusiastically.

 

“Not so fast,” Sana interrupted. “Both of you need to drink your milk first.”

 

“Come on, Kookie!” Taehyung grabbed Jungkook’s hand and pulled him toward the kitchen.

 

“And when they leave, you’d better wake up like this for school too, Taehyung!” Sana teased.

 

Without looking back, Taehyung dashed to the kitchen, dragging Jungkook along with him.

 

Sana and Jisoo smiled at the lively scene. Their attention was soon drawn to laughter nearby. Turning toward the sound, they saw their mothers-in-law whispering and giggling together. Sana and Jisoo chuckled, amused by how two different generations were equally excited to spend time with their friends.

 

 

That evening, Irene and Jieun sat together, watching their grandchildren play happily with one another.

 

“They remind me of us,” Irene said with a fond smile.

 

“I know,” Jieun replied, her eyes twinkling. “We were just as inseparable as they are.” She couldn’t help but smile as her grandson played with her best friend’s grandson.

 

Chuckling softly, Irene said, “Do you remember how we used to plan for our children to get married someday?”

 

Jieun smiled at the memory. “Yes, I do. Who would’ve thought we’d both end up with only one child each—and that they’d fall for someone else entirely?”

 

Irene laughed, her eyes warm as she watched the children. Then she glanced at Jieun, only to find her friend already looking back at her. In that instant, they both realized they were thinking the exact same thing.

 

They burst into happy laughter.

 

“But I have two grandsons,” Irene teased. “How are we supposed to choose which one?”

 

Jieun turned her attention back to the kids. Taehyung and Hyunbin were playing together enthusiastically, while Jungkook sat a little apart from them, focused on his drawing.

 

“Those two are inseparable,” Jieun pointed out with a knowing smile.

 

“True,” Irene agreed, noticing how Jungkook was once again lost in his own creative world, sketching quietly.

 

“What are you even saying? They’re just kids!” Namseok exclaimed, clearly in shock.

 

“Exactly! How can we decide now that they should get married in 20 years?” Suho added, equally stunned.

 

“Hyunbin is only six years old!” Jisoo chimed in.

 

“Look at them,” Irene said, motioning toward the children. “They’ve been stuck to each other ever since we arrived.”

 

“But, Mom, they’re just friends,” Suho reminded her gently.

 

“When I was younger than him, my marriage was already arranged with your father,” Irene countered.

 

“Mine too,” Jieun added with a nostalgic smile.

 

“But…” Namseok began to protest.

 

“Growing up, knowing that someone is destined just for you—it creates a bond that’s impossible to put into words. You wouldn’t understand unless you’ve experienced it,” Irene said, her voice soft with emotion.

 

Jieun sighed, her mind drifting to cherished memories of her own late husband.

 

Namseok and Suho exchanged helpless glances, unsure how to argue further.

 

 

"YES!" Taehyung shouted excitedly.

 

"So, will Taehyung come with me when we go home?" Hyunbin asked, equally thrilled.

 

"Not now," Irene told him gently.

 

"Why?" Hyunbin frowned, confused.

 

"Taehyung will come when he grows up, after you both get married," Jieun explained with a smile.

 

"Let’s get married now!" Hyunbin declared eagerly.

 

"Not now. After you two grow up," Irene repeated.

 

"But I’m tall already!" Hyunbin puffed out his chest proudly.

 

"Not tall enough," Namseok said, shaking his head.

 

"How tall do I have to be?" Hyunbin asked with a deep frown.

 

"As tall as Kookie?" Taehyung asked curiously.

 

"Taller than him," Namseok replied.

 

Hyunbin’s eyes widened in shock.

 

"Do I have to be as tall as Dad?"

 

"Yes," Suho confirmed.

 

"You have to drink lots of milk and eat vegetables, Binnie," Taehyung advised wisely.

 

"I don’t like them," Hyunbin groaned, sulking as he walked away.

 

 

---

 

Later, Taehyung sneaked out of his bedroom, his mother’s hanbok hidden under his top. Careful not to be seen, he dashed out of the house.

 

"Got it!" Taehyung exclaimed excitedly as he ran up to Hyunbin.

 

"Kook! Taehyung and I are going to get married. You come and be the priest," Hyunbin called out to Jungkook.

 

Jungkook looked up briefly from his book before going back to reading.

 

"Come on, Kookie Hyung," Taehyung called, hopeful.

 

"I’m reading, Taehyung," Jungkook replied calmly. "You guys play."

 

Taehyung’s face fell.

 

"He won’t come," Hyunbin said dismissively, focusing back on Taehyung.

 

"Okay," Taehyung said sadly, pulling out the hanbok. "How do I wear this?"

 

Hyunbin grabbed the hanbok, unfolded it, and began wrapping it tightly around Taehyung. When he was done, he draped the end over Taehyung’s shoulder.

 

"I can’t walk," Taehyung complained as he struggled to move.

 

"Then jump!" Hyunbin suggested confidently.

 

Taehyung nodded and tried to hop in place.

 

"Is that a chameleon?" Jungkook suddenly asked, his curiosity piqued as he stared into the distance.

 

"Where?" Hyunbin turned quickly, excited.

 

"It’s green," Jungkook pointed out.

 

"Taehyung, did you know chameleons can change colors? And their tongues are as long as a train!" Hyunbin said, full of excitement.

 

"Not that long," Jungkook muttered, rolling his eyes as he returned to his book.

 

"I’m going to catch it and take it with me when we leave," Hyunbin announced, running after the chameleon.

 

"Hyunbin, I have to put the hanbok back before Mumma finds out it’s missing!" Taehyung said, panicked.

 

"I’ll just get the chameleon and come back," Hyunbin replied, running off.

 

"Mumma will scold me, Binnie!" Taehyung said, his worry growing.

 

"One minute! I’m coming!" Hyunbin called over his shoulder, disappearing after the chameleon.

 

---

 

19 years later

 

Taehyung felt left out.

 

He sighed, realizing how silly he was being. But the FOMO was real, and it was overwhelming.

 

Walking into his bedroom, he locked the door behind him. As he approached his bed, he checked the time—11:45 PM. He picked up his phone and dialed Hyunbin’s number.

 

“Hey, sweetheart,” Hyunbin answered, his voice cheerful over the background of loud music and chatter.

 

“Hey, Binnie,” Taehyung said with a small smile. “How’s the party going?”

 

“It’s great,” Hyunbin replied. “Taehyung, is this something important? Can I call you back?”

 

“No, it’s fine. I just wanted to remind you not to forget to wish Jungkook at midnight,” Taehyung teased lightly.

 

“For God’s sake, Taehyung, I’m at his birthday party. How would I forget?” Hyunbin said with mock exasperation.

 

“You might, Binnie,” Taehyung teased again, grinning. Tomorrow was Jungkook’s birthday, and their best friend Yoongi was throwing a party in his honor.

 

“Trust me, the moment it hits midnight, someone will shout, ‘Happy Birthday, Jungkook!’ It’ll be impossible to forget,” Hyunbin replied cheekily.

 

Taehyung chuckled softly. “I wish I was there.”

 

“I told you to come.”

 

“I know… but with this wedding, I couldn’t. Otherwise, I’d have loved to be at the Jeon’s.” Taehyung sighed wistfully.

 

“Alright, I’ll let you go. Enjoy the party.”

 

“Okay. I’ll call you back.”

 

“If it’s after half an hour, don’t bother. I’ll probably be asleep by then,” Taehyung warned.

 

“No, I’ll call before that,” Hyunbin promised.

 

“Okay,” Taehyung said, knowing full well Hyunbin’s ADHD might kick in, and he’d likely get distracted. “Bye.”

 

Taehyung placed his phone on the bedside table, grabbed a book, and tried reading to stay awake until midnight so he could wish Jungkook.

 

But the words blurred together as his thoughts wandered to the party he was missing. He sighed sadly, frustrated at being so far from the Jeon’s and his friends.

 

Suddenly, his phone rang. Startled, he quickly picked it up.

 

 

---

 

A Few Months Later

 

“Hey, Binnie!” Taehyung answered cheerfully.

 

“I want to meet you, Taehyung,” Hyunbin said softly, his voice unusually tense.

 

“Give me a minute; I’ll switch to video call.”

 

“No, Taehyung. I need to meet you in person,” Hyunbin insisted nervously.

 

“Why? What’s going on?” Taehyung asked, his confusion growing.

 

“Please, Taehyung. It’s important,” Hyunbin said, his tone almost pleading.

 

“Okay… Are you coming here?” Taehyung asked, feeling a twinge of worry.

 

“Yes, but please don’t tell your parents I’m coming.”

 

“What’s wrong, Binnie?” Taehyung frowned, his concern deepening.

 

“I’ll explain when I see you,” Hyunbin said, his voice shaky.

 

“No, tell me now,” Taehyung pressed, unable to suppress his anxiety.

 

“I need to do this face-to-face, Taehyung,” Hyunbin said guiltily.

 

Taehyung’s heart skipped a beat. “Did you cheat on me, Binnie?” he asked, his voice trembling.

 

There was a pause, then Hyunbin whispered, “No… Maybe… I don’t know.”

 

“What are you saying, Binnie?” Taehyung asked, tears brimming in his eyes.

 

“Please, Taehyung, let me come there and explain.”

 

“Just tell me now, Binnie. I can’t take this tension,” Taehyung pleaded.

 

There was a long silence.

 

“Binnie!” Taehyung shouted, losing his patience in panic.

 

“I’m in love, Taehyung,” Hyunbin finally confessed, his voice heavy with guilt.

 

Taehyung felt like the ground had been pulled out from under him. He sank into a chair, his vision blurring with tears. “Who?”

 

“Taehyung, I’ll come there—”

 

“Who, Binnie?” Taehyung demanded angrily.

 

“Yoonji.”

 

“Yoongi’s sister?”

 

“You know her?” Hyunbin asked, surprised.

 

“Jungkook’s mentioned her,” Taehyung replied quietly. “You love her?”

 

“I met her at Jungkook’s birthday party. I don’t know what happened, Taehyung. I tried to fight these feelings, but I can’t control them,” Hyunbin admitted, his voice cracking.

 

Taehyung closed his eyes as tears streamed down his cheeks. “Does she love you?”

 

“I haven’t told her. I would never cheat on you like that,” Hyunbin said heatedly.

 

“What if she doesn’t feel the same, Binnie?” Taehyung asked, his voice trembling.

 

“But I love her,” Hyunbin said softly.

 

Taehyung nodded silently, the weight of those words crushing him.

 

“When I told Hyung, he said that if I couldn’t stay emotionally loyal to you, I should let you go,” Hyunbin admitted.

 

Taehyung swallowed hard, his heart breaking further.

 

“Please, Taehyung… I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean for this to happen,” Hyunbin said, his voice filled with regret and tears.

 

“I’m coming there, Taehyung.”

 

“Don’t come,” Taehyung said firmly, unable to face him.

 

“But, Taehyung—”

 

“I’m freeing you from this engagement, Binnie. You’re free to move on with your life,” Taehyung said, his voice cracking.

 

“You’re my best friend, Taehyung,” Hyunbin cried.

 

“I don’t want to see you, Binnie.”

 

“We have to tell your family, Taehyung.”

 

“I’ll handle it,” Taehyung said coldly.

 

“I need to be there.”

 

“No, Binnie. Please, let me be. Don’t come here.”

 

A Few Minutes Later

 

Taehyung was still in his room, his mind racing as he fought back tears. He hadn’t told his family about what happened yet. He wasn’t sure how. The thought that Binnie, the one person he’d always thought would be by his side, was in love with someone else felt like a punch to his gut.

 

Ever since he was a little boy, he had believed that Binnie was the one for him. But now...

 

Taehyung wiped his eyes, trying to hold back the tears. He didn’t want to cry, but he felt so incredibly lonely. There was no one to share this pain with.

 

A knock at the door broke his train of thought. He quickly wiped his tears, forced a smile onto his face, and opened the door.

 

His smile faltered the moment he saw the man standing there.

 

Before he could stop himself, the tears started flowing. His body trembled as sobs wracked through him. He couldn’t hold it in anymore.

 

Jungkook stepped inside without hesitation, pulling Taehyung into a tight hug. Taehyung buried his face in Jungkook’s chest, his sobs growing louder.

 

“How could he fall in love with someone else?” Taehyung asked, voice muffled as he cried.

 

Jungkook held him securely, not saying a word as Taehyung let his emotions spill out.

 

“Everything is going to be okay. You’re going to be okay,” Jungkook reassured him softly, rubbing Taehyung’s back.

 

“Why did you come?” Taehyung asked, looking up at him with tear-filled eyes.

 

“This morning, Binnie came to me. He told me he was in love with someone else, and he didn’t know what to do,” Jungkook explained. “I told him that the first thing he needed to do was tell you. So I came here because I knew you would need me.”

 

Taehyung nodded, resting his head on Jungkook’s chest. “I do,” he whispered. He’d always known that Jungkook was strong and could be ruthless, but for him, Jungkook had always been the dearest friend he could rely on.

 

“Taehyung,” Jungkook continued gently, “you might feel like this is the end, like there’s no way forward. But trust me, you are strong, and you will move forward. Time heals all wounds. You will find someone who will love you the way you deserve. Someone who will choose you above everything else, who will put you first. You deserve that, and you will find him.”

 

Taehyung managed a weak smile. “When did you become all fanciful and romantic?”

 

Jungkook smiled softly, his eyes kind. “Made you smile, didn’t I?”

 

Taehyung’s smile faltered but remained, a small comfort amidst the pain. “I can’t love anyone else.”

 

“You will, Taehyung,” Jungkook replied with confidence. “You always thought Binnie was the one you’d marry one day. Once you accept that you two weren’t meant to be, you’ll be able to love again.”

 

“I’ve loved him all my life,” Taehyung whispered, fresh tears filling his eyes.

 

“Of course, you’ve loved him,” Jungkook said, voice soft. “He was your best friend. You’ll always love him.”

 

“But he’ll never love me the way I wanted him to,” Taehyung said sadly, voice cracking.

 

Jungkook looked at him with gentle eyes. “Did you love him the way you wanted him to love you?”

 

Taehyung’s eyes widened in shock. “You don’t think I loved him?”

 

“I always wondered,” Jungkook admitted. “You two were so young when everyone decided you would get married. If the marriage hadn’t been arranged, do you think you would’ve remained just friends, or would you have fallen in love? I was always concerned.”

 

Taehyung felt a heavy weight in his chest as he pointed out, “Binnie proved you right.”

 

Jungkook shook his head. “It’s all going to be fine, Taehyung.”

 

But just as he said those words, a loud voice echoed from outside the room.

 

“WHAT ARE YOU SAYING?”

 

Taehyung froze, his heart racing. He stepped back in shock and looked at Jungkook, who gave him a calm but serious look.

 

“You didn’t come alone?” Taehyung whispered in a panic.

 

Jungkook nodded. “Grandma’s with me. We came to inform your family as well, Taehyung.”

 

Taehyung’s grip tightened on Jungkook’s hand. “This will break their hearts,” he whispered, the weight of his family finding out sinking in.

 

Jungkook gave his hand a reassuring squeeze. “We’ll face it together.”

 

"After all these years, how can you just come and say that Hyunbin loves someone else?" Sana asked angrily.

 

Irene replied regretfully, "Please trust me, none of us wanted this to happen—especially Hyunbin. But some things are beyond our control."

 

"He knew he was engaged to my son. He should have controlled himself!" Namseok said furiously.

 

Irene lowered her head, guilt and regret evident on her face.

 

"Where is he now? Why didn’t he come here?" Sana demanded.

 

"He wanted to speak with Taehyung first. He doesn’t know that Jungkook and I came here," Irene explained.

 

"He better stay away from my son," Namseok snapped, then turned angrily to his silent mother.

 

"I told you they were just kids! I said we shouldn’t do this, but you wouldn’t listen. Do you have nothing to say now?" he asked furiously.

 

Jieun, with tear-stained eyes, turned to her best friend and asked, "How could you let this happen to my grandchild?"

 

"I don’t know how it happened," Irene said as tears streamed down her face. "I’m so sorry."

 

"What am I supposed to tell my child?" Sana cried, tears spilling over.

 

Suddenly, a calm voice interrupted, "Binnie told me, Mumma. I freed him from this relationship."

 

They turned toward the sound and saw Taehyung standing with Jungkook.

 

Sana rushed to him and hugged him tightly. "I’m so sorry, Taehyung."

 

Taehyung hugged her back, fighting his own tears. "I’m fine, Mumma. I’ll be fine," he said, trying to console her and his father.

 

"Taehyung, my son, I’m so sorry," Irene said as she approached him.

 

"It’s not your fault," Taehyung reassured her, stepping back. "It’s not Binnie’s fault either. I know he would have never dreamed of hurting me."

 

"He never would," Jungkook said firmly, vouching for his brother. "If he hadn’t told you, he would’ve married you, spent his whole life trying to keep you happy, and suffered in silence. That wouldn’t be right—for either of you."

 

Taehyung nodded quietly.

 

"What’s going to happen to Taehyung now?" Jieun asked, her voice breaking as she cried.

 

Sana turned to her, realizing the depth of her worry.

 

"I’ll be fine," Taehyung said softly, though he unconsciously leaned slightly against Jungkook.

 

Jungkook quickly wrapped his arm around Taehyung’s shoulders, holding him close.

 

"Taehyung’s happiness is our responsibility. I promise, I’ll find the best husband for Taehyung," Jungkook declared.

 

"I don’t want to get married," Taehyung whispered.

 

"Best husband?" Sana asked angrily. "Everyone knows Taehyung was engaged to Hyunbin. Everyone knows he spent vacations at your house, and you and your brother always came here for holidays. What will people say now that the engagement is broken? Can you even imagine the gossip about our son?"

 

"When I said the best husband, I meant someone who would trust Taehyung completely. Someone who knows him so well that no rumor or gossip could sway him," Jungkook retorted sharply. "Why would you want someone for Taehyung who could be so easily influenced by others’ words?"

 

"Please stop!" Taehyung cried, tears falling. "I don’t want to get married."

 

Jungkook hugged him tightly, shielding him from the weight of the situation.

 

"Taehyung," Jungkook whispered gently, "I know everything seems impossible now, but trust me—time heals all wounds. You’ll be happy again, I promise. I won’t stop until I bring you all the happiness you deserve."

 

Irene, watching the scene unfold, suddenly said, "My Kookie will marry Taehyung."

 

Both Jungkook and Taehyung turned to her in shock.

 

"What?" Jungkook asked, stunned.

 

Irene continued, "All the way here, you kept worrying about Taehyung and saying we need to give him his happiness back."

 

"Yes, Grandma, but..."

 

"There is no one in this world I trust more than you, Jungkook. I know you will keep Taehyung happy," Irene said earnestly.

 

"Taehyung hasn’t even gotten over his previous relationship yet, Grandma," Jungkook reminded her, still in shock.

 

"No one knows them as well as you do, Jungkook," Jieun added softly.

 

"What are you all saying?" Taehyung asked, his voice filled with shock and disbelief.

 

"Taehyung, I believe this is the best decision for your future," Sana said gently.

 

"My son is not a burden on me!" Namseok exclaimed angrily. "Once, I let others decide his life. This time, I won’t let that happen again."

 

 

"But what are we going to say when people ask about Taehyung’s broken engagement? It could ruin his life," Sana said worriedly.

 

"If Taehyung will have me, I’ll marry him," Jungkook declared firmly.

 

"What?" Taehyung turned to him in shock. "What are you saying, hyung? There’s more to life than marriage!"

 

"But you need a companion to go through life, Taehyung," Irene said gently.

 

Taehyung shook his head and responded, "You don’t have to sacrifice your life to save mine. You don’t have to make up for what your brother did."

 

"You’re my friend, Taehyung. I’m not sacrificing anything," Jungkook replied. "Everyone wants a friend in their life partner. And in my life, there is no friend dearer to me than you."

 

Taehyung’s eyes welled up at Jungkook’s heartfelt words.

 

"You can take all the time you need, Taehyung," Jungkook continued. "There’s no pressure. You can decide if and when you want to marry me. If you choose not to, that’s okay too."

 

Taehyung stared at him, feeling overwhelmed and unsure.

 

"I want you to be happy. And if you’re happy, your family will be happy too. Take your time and make the decision that feels right for you," Jungkook reassured him.

 

Irene gently placed a hand on Taehyung’s cheek. "Jungkook will keep you happy, Taehyung. He knows everything about you, and you know everything about him. This is the right decision."

 

"Don’t force him," Namseok warned, his tone firm.

 

Taehyung looked at his father and saw the pain in his eyes, despite his strong words. He glanced at his mother, who was crying, and then at his grandmother, who seemed shattered.

 

In that moment, Taehyung realized that for his family’s happiness, this was the choice he had to make.

 

"I’ll marry Jungkook," Taehyung said quietly.

 

"You’re okay with this, right?" Jungkook asked Taehyung gently.

 

Taehyung nodded, though his eyes brimmed with unshed tears. Within an hour, his engagement with Hyunbin had ended, and his marriage to Jungkook had been decided.

 

Jungkook placed a reassuring hand on Taehyung’s shoulders. "We’ll make this work, Taehyung."

 

Taehyung looked at him worriedly. "What if we never fall in love with each other?"

 

Jungkook smiled softly. "We already love each other in one way. That means there will always be love between us."

 

Feeling slightly reassured, Taehyung nodded and leaned in to hug him.

 

Jungkook hugged him back warmly.

 

"You’re fine, right?" Jungkook asked as they walked together toward Taehyung’s house.

 

Taehyung nodded again.

 

"Call me if you want to talk," Jungkook said.

 

"I know," Taehyung replied with a small smile. Whenever something troubled him, Taehyung always turned to Jungkook. Even though he used to share his worries with Hyunbin, their conversations never lasted. Hyunbin’s ADHD often made him lose focus midway, leaving Taehyung feeling unheard. Taehyung had often complained about this to Jungkook, who always listened patiently.

 

Jungkook chuckled lightly. "Come on, Chopper is waiting. We’ve got to go."

 

Taehyung nodded again, hugging him tightly for a moment before they continued walking.

 

As they entered the house, they saw their families waiting for them.

 

"I spoke to Suho and Jisoo," Irene informed them.

 

Jungkook nodded.

 

 

 

 

**********””””

 

"They’re so happy and relieved that you both have decided to get married," Irene added.

 

"Taehyung has always been like a son to them," Jungkook replied with a small nod.

 

Taehyung, however, couldn’t help but wonder if Hyunbin knew about these sudden developments. He wanted to ask but couldn’t bring himself to say Hyunbin’s name.

 

As if reading his mind, Jungkook asked, "What about Binnie?"

 

"He’s not home, and he’s not answering his phone," Irene said worriedly.

 

Jungkook glanced at Taehyung, noticing the worry in his eyes as well.

 

"I’ll try calling him," Jungkook offered.

 

Taehyung nodded silently.

 

 

Jungkook took his phone and dialed Hyunbin’s number. The line rang for a while before Hyunbin finally picked up.

 

"Binnie..." Jungkook said as he walked out of the room.

 

Taehyung watched him leave, but when Jungkook reached back and held his hand, Taehyung followed him without hesitation.

 

"Stop crying, Binnie," Jungkook said in a calm, consoling tone. Noticing Taehyung’s concerned expression, Jungkook quickly put the call on speaker.

 

"I didn’t want to hurt Taehyung," Hyunbin’s voice trembled. "Taehyung is so hurt because of me. I never wanted to hurt him. I don’t even know how all of this happened... why I fell in love."

 

"Listen, Binnie, calm down," Jungkook said firmly. "What you did was the right thing. Taehyung wouldn’t have been happy with you if you’re in love with someone else."

 

"He’s not happy now either!" Hyunbin cried, his voice breaking.

 

Taehyung’s eyes filled with tears as he listened. He glanced at Jungkook, who was watching him intently.

 

"Taehyung will be happy, Binnie," Jungkook vowed with quiet determination.

 

"He was so hurt. He was crying," Hyunbin said, breaking down completely.

 

"Taehyung and I are getting married," Jungkook informed him.

 

"What?" Hyunbin said, stunned into silence.

 

"We realized this is the best decision," Jungkook explained.

 

"Taehyung agreed?" Hyunbin asked, still in shock.

 

"You think I’d let anyone force or manipulate him?" Jungkook asked, sounding offended.

 

Hyunbin was silent for a moment before he softly requested, "Please keep him happy, hyung. He’s a wonderful person. He deserves the best. And it kills me that I couldn’t be that for him."

 

Jungkook looked at Taehyung, noticing the tears running down his face. "He knows that, Binnie."

 

"He doesn’t want to talk to me or see me. And he’s right. I don’t deserve his friendship anymore," Hyunbin said, his voice heavy with guilt.

 

"Give him time," Jungkook replied gently.

 

"Hmm," Hyunbin murmured, ending the call.

 

 

---

 

Taehyung sat alone in his room, lost in thought. His mind kept wandering between Hyunbin and Jungkook.

 

All his life, Taehyung had believed Hyunbin was his forever. He had woken up that very morning still holding on to that belief. Now, by the end of the day, his engagement to Hyunbin was over, and his marriage to Jungkook was decided.

 

He wasn’t sure if the decision he made was right or wrong. He trusted Jungkook with his life, just as he had trusted Hyunbin. But doubt and fear lingered, filling his chest with uncertainty.

 

What if Jungkook, like Hyunbin, fell in love with someone else one day? The thought terrified him, though he couldn’t bring himself to say it aloud.

 

But then, Taehyung reminded himself of who Jungkook was—strong, steadfast, and unwavering. Once Jungkook made up his mind, nothing, not even heaven or hell, could change it.

 

Maybe, this time, it really was forever.

 

The next morning, Namseok approached Taehyung with concern written on his face.

 

"Are you okay, Taehyung?" he asked softly.

 

Taehyung nodded. "I'm fine, Appa."

 

Namseok placed a gentle hand on his son’s cheek, his eyes filled with guilt. "I’m sorry, son."

 

Taehyung placed his hand over his father’s, offering a small, reassuring smile. "I’ll be happy with hyung. You don’t have to worry."

 

Namseok hesitated before asking, "You’re sure about this, right?"

 

Taehyung nodded again.

 

Still worried, Namseok sighed. "Jungkook isn’t like Hyunbin, Taehyung."

 

Taehyung looked at him curiously. "What do you mean?"

 

"Suho mentioned that Jungkook has a short temper. At work, he’s very strict, and..."

 

Taehyung chuckled softly, interrupting. "Not with me, Appa."

 

"Taehyung..."

 

"No matter how much I irritate him, he’s never lost his temper with me. Sure, he glares, ignores me, and walks away sometimes, but he’s never raised his voice at me."

 

"Marriage is different," Namseok warned. "He’ll be your husband, not just your friend."

 

"And that will only make him more concerned about my happiness and comfort," Taehyung said confidently.

 

Before Namseok could respond, Sana walked in, looking concerned. "It was Jisoo," she said, addressing both of them.

 

"What happened?" Namseok asked, alarmed.

 

"She thinks we should announce Taehyung and Jungkook’s engagement before word gets out about Hyunbin and Taehyung’s broken marriage. There will be too much gossip otherwise," Sana explained.

 

Taehyung’s heart raced at her words.

 

"She also suggested that we hold the wedding soon," Sana added hesitantly.

 

"Soon?" Taehyung echoed in shock. Was he ready for such a quick wedding? Could he live with Jungkook under the same roof as Hyunbin?

 

"Engaged to one brother and marrying the other. There will be too many rumors," Namseok agreed, but he turned to Taehyung and said firmly, "Whatever you decide, we’ll do that."

 

Taehyung opened his mouth to protest but was interrupted by the buzz of his phone. He glanced at the message from Jungkook:

 

Mom just told me what she told your mother. Whenever we get married, people will gossip. We can’t control that. But I feel like getting married soon might be better. Once we start our new life, it will be easier for everyone, including us, to move on. Anyway, we’ve already decided to get married—does the timing really matter?

 

Another message followed:

 

This is just my opinion. If you don’t agree, let me know. I’ll handle it and tell everyone I’m not ready for a quick wedding.

 

Taehyung sighed as he read the texts. Looking up at his parents, he said, "I’m going to marry Jungkook hyung anyway. If everyone thinks it’s better to have the wedding soon, then I’m okay with it."

 

---

 

A few days later, Taehyung and his family traveled to Seoul to meet the Jeon family and finalize the engagement and wedding date.

 

Sitting in Jungkook’s home, Taehyung felt out of place. Though he’d visited countless times, today felt different.

 

"You okay?" Jungkook asked, noticing his unease.

 

Taehyung nodded hesitantly.

 

"What’s wrong?" Jungkook pressed gently, taking Taehyung’s hand in his.

 

"It feels strange to be here today," Taehyung admitted.

 

Jungkook nodded in understanding. "You were my brother’s fiancé before, and now you’re mine. It’s bound to feel different."

 

Taehyung nodded nervously, but Jungkook squeezed his hand reassuringly.

 

"The relationship has changed, Taehyung, but the people here haven’t. They still love you just as much as they always have," Jungkook said warmly.

 

Taehyung smiled slightly, comforted by his words.

 

Just then, footsteps echoed in the hallway. Looking up, Taehyung saw Hyunbin enter the room. His heart raced as Hyunbin looked at him guiltily. Avoiding his gaze, Taehyung quickly looked away.

 

Breaking the silence, Suho hesitantly said, "There’s going to be a lot of talk. I was wondering if we should announce Hyunbin and Yoonji’s engagement alongside Jungkook and Taehyung’s."

 

"I haven’t spoken to Yoonji yet," Hyunbin quickly replied, his eyes darting to Taehyung.

 

"You should," Suho advised.

 

"No," Jungkook interrupted firmly.

 

"What?" Suho asked, confused.

 

"The four of us won’t get engaged together," Jungkook declared.

 

"But people will wonder—" Jisoo began.

 

"If people find out that Hyunbin loves someone else, they’ll talk about Taehyung," Jungkook interrupted. "They’ll say I’m marrying him to save face or because I pity him. I won’t let anyone think lowly of Taehyung."

 

"It’s the truth, hyung," Taehyung whispered softly.

 

Jungkook turned to him with unwavering determination. "I’m not marrying you to make up for anything, Taehyung. I’m marrying you because I believe we can be happy together."

 

Taehyung nodded, his heart warming at Jungkook’s sincerity.

 

Jungkook then addressed their families. "Hyunbin and Taehyung never had an official engagement, so not everyone knows they were supposed to marry. We can simply say that people assumed, but Taehyung and I fell in love, and that’s why we’re getting married."

 

Though the family wasn’t entirely sure how convincing the story would be, they agreed to stick to it.

 

As Taehyung looked at his parents, he noticed their smiles directed at Jungkook. Their acceptance of him as Taehyung’s future husband filled his heart with relief. For the first time, Taehyung felt like everything might turn out all right.

 

---

 

"I want to take you somewhere," Jungkook said to Taehyung after everything was finalized.

 

"Where?" Taehyung asked curiously, his eyes lighting up.

 

"Some place," Jungkook replied, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

 

Seeing his smile, Taehyung couldn’t help but smile back.

 

"Okay. I’ll just tell Mumma and come. When will we be back?"

 

"Depends. Two to four hours, maybe," Jungkook answered nonchalantly.

 

"Where are we going?" Taehyung asked again, surprised by the duration.

 

"You go tell her and come," Jungkook said, avoiding the question but still smiling.

 

Taehyung chuckled softly, shaking his head before heading to his mother. As he made his way, he noticed Hyunbin approaching from the opposite direction. His steps faltered momentarily before he quickly looked away and walked past without acknowledging him.

 

 

---

 

"Who stays here?" Taehyung asked as he stepped out of the elevator with Jungkook.

 

"No one that I know," Jungkook replied casually.

 

"Then why are we here?" Taehyung asked, exasperated.

 

Jungkook cheekily grinned and walked toward a man standing by the door of a flat.

 

"Good evening, sir," the man greeted Jungkook with a slight bow.

 

Jungkook simply nodded.

 

Taehyung frowned and leaned closer to whisper, "Will you lose your teeth if you wish him back?"

 

Grinning ear to ear, Jungkook shot back, "Who told you my teeth are real?"

 

Taehyung gaped at him in shock before scowling. "Your teeth are real, but you’re definitely mannerless."

 

"I am what I am," Jungkook replied, the cheeky grin never leaving his face.

 

"Keys?" he asked the man.

 

"It’s open, sir," the man replied, then turned to Taehyung with a polite smile. "Good evening, sir."

 

"Good evening. And you are?" Taehyung asked kindly.

 

"Jackson. My assistant," Jungkook interjected before Jackson could respond.

 

Ignoring Jungkook, Taehyung smiled warmly at Jackson. "Hello, Jackson. I’m Taehyung."

 

"He knows. Why do you think he’s been waiting here?" Jungkook muttered, rolling his eyes.

 

"Oh, you were waiting? Thank you for waiting for us, Jackson," Taehyung said sincerely.

 

Jungkook sighed and shook his head. "Jackson, wait here. Taehyung, come." He opened the door for him.

 

Taehyung didn’t move. Instead, he stood there with a firm look. "Did you forget something, hyung?"

 

Jungkook paused, confused. Taehyung gestured toward Jackson.

 

Jungkook sighed deeply before turning back to his assistant. "Good evening, Jackson," he said with exaggerated politeness.

 

"Good evening, sir," Jackson replied, clearly shocked by the sudden courtesy.

 

"Now, can we go in?" Jungkook asked Taehyung impatiently.

 

"He was waiting for us, Jungkook," Taehyung reminded him.

 

"That’s his job!" Jungkook exclaimed, exasperated.

 

"That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t show manners," Taehyung scolded, crossing his arms stubbornly.

 

Resisting the urge to argue, Jungkook turned back to Jackson and said, "Thank you, Jackson."

 

"You don’t have to thank me, sir," Jackson replied, still in disbelief.

 

Jungkook turned to Taehyung. "Heard that? Anything else?"

 

"Lose the attitude. Don’t like it," Taehyung said firmly.

 

With a sharp breath, Jungkook finally snapped. He bent down, grabbed Taehyung, and threw him over his shoulder.

 

"Hyung! What are you doing?" Taehyung shrieked, struggling as Jungkook carried him into the flat.

 

"You’re driving me crazy," Jungkook muttered as he set Taehyung down gently once inside.

 

"You should treat people more nicely," Taehyung said, still frowning.

 

Jungkook kept him close, brushing his fingers lightly across Taehyung’s cheek. "Stop irritating me. I know you’re doing this because I didn’t tell you why I brought you here."

 

Taehyung looked away, his voice soft. "And I didn’t like how you spoke to Jackson. Be nice to people, hyung."

 

"I’m like this, Taehyung," Jungkook said with a shrug.

 

"Usually, when I irritate you, you leave," Taehyung admitted, feeling nervous as his heart raced.

 

"That was before," Jungkook said, his voice gentle. He cupped Taehyung’s face, his touch soft and reassuring. "Now, you’re going to be my husband. I’m not going to leave you behind."

 

Taehyung’s breath hitched. For the first time, he felt something for Jungkook that went beyond friendship. Nervously, he stepped back and asked, "Why are we here?"

 

Jungkook smiled. "Do you like it?"

 

"I don’t like being treated like a caveman," Taehyung retorted, though his voice betrayed a hint of amusement.

 

"What?" Jungkook asked, confused. Realizing his misunderstanding, he said, "Not that. The flat."

 

"Flat?" Taehyung asked, finally taking in the beautiful surroundings. His eyes widened. "This?"

 

Jungkook nodded.

 

"I know it’s not going to be easy for you to stay in the same house as Hyunbin, so I thought we could live separately after marriage," Jungkook explained.

 

Taehyung stared at him, shocked. "You’d stay away from your family for me?"

 

"You’re also my family, Taehyung. Always have been, and always will be," Jungkook said warmly.

 

Taehyung felt his heart swell at the words. "I just need some time to be okay with Binnie," he confessed.

 

"I know," Jungkook said, his tone understanding. "When I told my family, Binnie offered to move out, but I prefer this."

 

Taehyung nodded, his heart lighter.

 

"This way, away from everyone, we’ll have the space to accept each other faster in this new relationship," Jungkook said.

 

"I hope so," Taehyung said with a shy smile, his heart warming to the idea of starting a new chapter with Jungkook.

 

"Let me show you the flat," Jungkook said, his tone filled with excitement.

 

—

 

"It's beautiful," Taehyung said, his eyes gleaming with happiness.

 

"There are two other options," Jungkook mentioned casually. "I felt you’d like this one the most, which is why I brought you here first. But if you want, we can check out the others too."

 

"Which one do you like best?" Taehyung asked, curious.

 

"I like all three," Jungkook admitted, pulling out his phone. He scrolled through his gallery and handed it to Taehyung. "Here are photos of the other two."

 

Taehyung examined the pictures and smiled. "You’re right. I like this flat the best." He handed the phone back, grinning.

 

Jungkook smirked smugly. "So, I’ll finalize this?"

 

"Yes, but I want to change the wall colors," Taehyung added thoughtfully.

 

"There are two months before the wedding," Jungkook said, tucking his phone away. "You’ve got plenty of time to renovate it however you like."

 

 

---

 

Taehyung was engrossed in a video call when his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen and saw Jungkook’s name flashing.

 

"Hyung, I’m busy right now. I’ll call you back," Taehyung answered quickly.

 

"I’ve been gone for a week, and I just got back today. No time for me?" Jungkook complained on the other end.

 

"I’m talking to Jackson right now. I’ll call you later," Taehyung said dismissively.

 

"Jackson?" Jungkook repeated, sounding scandalized. "You do realize you talk to him more than you talk to me?"

 

"Yeah?" Taehyung replied cheekily. "Never really thought about it. Bye!"

 

Taehyung hung up, grinning at Jackson. "How’s it going with the wallpapers?"

 

"It’ll be done today," Jackson informed him. "The shelves have arrived too. We’ll start fixing them tomorrow. I’ve also forwarded some suggestions for blinds and curtains."

 

"Let me check," Taehyung said, taking the iPad and scrolling through the options.

 

"Taehyung, sir, it’s the boss," Jackson said, nodding toward Taehyung’s buzzing phone.

 

"Okay. And Jackson, how many times do I have to tell you? Just call me Taehyung," he replied, still swiping through the photos.

 

"Boss will fire me," Jackson said with a shake of his head.

 

Taehyung rolled his eyes. He could never understand why people feared Jungkook so much—it was all bark and no bite.

 

"Good afternoon, sir—what?!" Jackson’s voice rose in shock as he answered a call. "But sir... hello? Hello?"

 

"What happened?" Taehyung asked, looking up from the iPad.

 

"Sir just fired me," Jackson said, stunned, his eyes watering.

 

"He did?" Taehyung repeated, surprised, before his lips broke into a wide grin. He immediately dialed Jungkook.

 

"Yeah?" Jungkook answered smugly.

 

"Did you fire Jackson?" Taehyung asked, trying to suppress a laugh.

 

"Yeah," Jungkook confirmed without hesitation.

 

"Thanks, hyung!" Taehyung exclaimed, his grin widening. "I hated sharing him with you. He always ran off to do your work first. Now he’s all mine. You’re the best. Okay, bye. Very busy!" He hung up before Jungkook could respond.

 

"Let’s get back to work," Taehyung said happily, turning back to Jackson.

 

Jackson gaped at him. "But, sir..."

 

"He can’t do without you. You’ll be fine," Taehyung said dismissively.

 

Jackson grinned. "They say ants can bring an elephant to its knees. I’m seeing it now."

 

Taehyung blushed at the comment.

 

Jackson chuckled to himself. It amazed him how this petite boy could so effortlessly bring the mighty Jeon Jungkook to heel.

 

 

---

 

"Tomorrow, after the engagement, I’ll visit the apartment to see the progress. Jackson’s been sending me photos, but I want to check in person. You’re free in the evening, right?" Taehyung asked as he and Jungkook walked side by side.

 

"Yeah. You’ve done a wonderful job. It looks amazing," Jungkook complimented.

 

Taehyung smiled, pleased. "Should we let our parents see it? Or should we wait until it’s fully done?"

 

"After we move in," Jungkook decided.

 

"When will we move in?" Taehyung asked curiously.

 

"Immediately after the wedding," Jungkook replied.

 

"Same day?" Taehyung asked in surprise.

 

"Yeah. Jackson said it’d be ready at least a week before the wedding."

 

"It will be," Taehyung assured him.

 

"If you need more help or anything, just hire them," Jungkook said.

 

Taehyung nodded, and they continued walking, both lost in thought.

 

After a moment, Taehyung reached out and held Jungkook’s hand. "You know, not delaying the wedding was a good decision."

 

Jungkook smiled at him, warmth filling his gaze.

 

"Between wedding planning and the flat renovations, I’ve been so busy. It’s helped me keep my mind off things and focus on us," Taehyung said, smiling softly.

 

"It doesn’t hurt now," he added quietly.

 

Jungkook stopped walking, his heart swelling at Taehyung’s words. Taehyung turned to him and, without hesitation, hugged him tightly.

 

Jungkook smiled and hugged him back, holding him close.

 

 

 

 

---

 

The room buzzed with excitement as Jungkook and Taehyung slipped rings onto each other's fingers. Applause filled the air, and the newlyweds smiled at each other, a warmth only they understood radiating between them.

 

As they moved to take pictures with guests, Hyunbin approached Taehyung hesitantly.

 

"Congratulations," Hyunbin said softly.

 

Taehyung turned to him, his expression polite but distant. A small nod was the only acknowledgment he gave.

 

Realizing Taehyung still wasn’t ready to forgive him, Hyunbin turned to Jungkook and hugged him instead.

 

"Take care of him," Hyunbin murmured.

 

"I will," Jungkook replied with a faint smile, though his grip tightened protectively around Taehyung’s waist.

 

 

---

 

Later, outside the venue…

 

"Sir, there are a few media people outside," Jackson whispered to Jungkook as they prepared to leave.

 

Jungkook nodded, already anticipating the attention. He tightened his hold on Taehyung’s waist and pulled him closer.

 

"What’s happening?" Taehyung asked, confused.

 

"There’s media outside. Stay close to me," Jungkook instructed gently. "If they ask questions, answer only if you’re comfortable. If not, just ignore them—I’ll handle it."

 

"Won’t that be rude?" Taehyung asked, shocked at the idea.

 

Jungkook glanced heavenward, silently pleading for patience.

 

He led Taehyung out, walking swiftly, but the reporters were faster, surrounding them with cameras and microphones.

 

The sudden attention made Taehyung freeze for a moment, panic flickering across his face. Jungkook immediately wrapped an arm tighter around his waist, shielding him.

 

Answering a few questions calmly, Jungkook was about to move on when a sharp voice cut through the crowd:

 

"Is it true that Taehyung was engaged to your brother, and when he broke off the engagement, you stepped in to marry him?"

 

Taehyung felt Jungkook stiffen beside him, the air around them growing tense. Though his face remained calm, his eyes burned with restrained fury. His grip on Taehyung’s waist tightened further, as if anchoring him in place.

 

Before Taehyung could react, Jungkook chuckled and turned to him. "Is it true, Taehyung, that you were engaged to Hyunbin?" he asked lightly.

 

Without waiting for an answer, Jungkook faced the journalist. "Since Taehyung is closer in age to Hyunbin, some in our family thought they might end up together. But fate had other plans. Call it destiny—or my luck—but Taehyung and I fell in love. Now, if you’ll excuse us, our family is waiting."

 

With that, Jungkook guided Taehyung away, his hand never leaving Taehyung’s waist, ignoring the barrage of follow-up questions.

 

Once they were out of earshot, Jungkook stopped and turned to Taehyung. "Are you okay?" he asked, concern etched on his face.

 

"I’m fine. Are you?" Taehyung asked, his hand instinctively resting on Jungkook’s cheek.

 

Jungkook exhaled sharply, agitated. "I should’ve been more careful."

 

"It’s not your fault," Taehyung reassured him. "You handled it perfectly."

 

Jungkook nodded but turned to Jackson with a steely gaze. "Find out who spoke to the media."

 

Jackson nodded and hurried off.

 

---

 

Later that evening…

 

Jungkook had changed into more comfortable clothes and was waiting for Taehyung so they could visit their new flat. Jackson entered, his expression grim.

 

"Who spoke to the media?" Jungkook demanded.

 

"Hyunbin’s friend—Jack," Jackson replied.

 

Fury flashed in Jungkook’s eyes. He stormed out, spotting Hyunbin and his friends gathered nearby. Taehyung, now dressed and coming downstairs, saw Jungkook’s rigid posture and followed him.

 

Jungkook reached Jack, grabbing him by the collar before anyone could react, and delivered a swift punch to his nose. Blood spurted, and chaos erupted.

 

"Hyung, what are you doing?" Hyunbin shouted, rushing to Jack’s side.

 

"Jungkook!" Taehyung called out, horrified. He stopped in his tracks when he saw Jack clutching his bleeding nose. "Oh my God, Jack, you’re bleeding!" Taehyung said, trying to move toward him.

 

Jungkook grabbed Taehyung’s wrist, holding him back protectively.

 

"Have you lost your mind?" Hyunbin yelled, pressing a cloth to Jack’s nose. "What’s wrong with you?"

 

Jungkook’s voice was ice. "Didn’t I warn all of you not to speak to the media?"

 

"They didn’t!" Hyunbin protested. "Even I told them not to."

 

"He did!" Jungkook snapped, pointing at Jack.

 

Hyunbin turned to his friend, stunned. "Jack, did you speak to the media?"

 

"I… I didn’t know he was media," Jack stammered, panicked. "I was drunk. I’m sorry. I only realized when I saw the clip later."

 

"You were explicitly told not to mention Taehyung to anyone," Jungkook said, his voice low and dangerous.

 

Taehyung tugged on Jungkook’s arm, his voice gentle but firm. "Let it go. Please."

 

Jungkook’s expression softened slightly at Taehyung’s worried face, but his tone remained sharp as he addressed Hyunbin. "Control your friends, Hyunbin. If they humiliate my husband again, I won’t just punch them—I’ll kill them."

 

Hyunbin nodded, his face pale with shock.

 

Jungkook turned to Taehyung, his protective instincts still in overdrive. "Let’s go."

 

Taehyung sighed but followed, placing a calming hand on Jungkook’s arm. "You didn’t have to go that far."

 

"For you," Jungkook said simply, his eyes softening as he looked at Taehyung. "I’d go even further."

 

Taehyung smiled faintly, leaning into Jungkook’s side as they walked away together.

 

"I don't want to go to the flat," Taehyung said softly as they got into the car.

 

"Why?" Jungkook asked, turning to him.

 

"I don't want to go when you're in this mood."

 

"I'm sorry, Taehyung. I… I should have been more careful. I shouldn't have let them ask those questions," Jungkook said regretfully.

 

"It doesn't matter what they ask. My past doesn't matter. Only our future matters," Taehyung reassured him.

 

Jungkook nodded and leaned toward him, pulling him into a hug.

 

Taehyung snuggled into Jungkook's chest, letting out a soft sigh. Jungkook hugged him tighter, but his eyes darted toward the driver sitting awkwardly in the front seat.

 

"Get out!" Jungkook barked in exasperation.

 

Taehyung sat up, startled, watching as the driver scrambled out of the car.

 

"Why do you have to be so rude?" Taehyung asked in shock.

 

"That’s your problem? Not the fact that he was sitting there?" Jungkook countered, exasperated.

 

"What was he supposed to do?"

 

"Oh my God! Then why don't we invite him for our wedding night too?" Jungkook blurted.

 

Taehyung's eyes widened in shock as his cheeks turned a deep pink. Realizing what Jungkook meant, he quickly looked away.

 

"Erm... I didn’t mean... you know," Jungkook said awkwardly, scratching the back of his neck.

 

"Shut up," Taehyung mumbled, flustered, as he leaned toward the window and knocked on it.

 

The driver glanced back hesitantly. Taehyung gestured for him to get back inside.

 

"We're going to see the flat?" Jungkook asked.

 

"Yes."

 

"But earlier, you said—"

 

"Now you're not angry. I didn’t want to go to our home when you were in a bad mood."

 

Jungkook smiled, his heart warming at the way Taehyung called their flat "home."

 

 

---

 

Their wedding day arrived swiftly, grand and magical—a true fairytale celebration.

 

After the ceremony, they had a housewarming for their new apartment.

 

As they completed the post-wedding rituals, Taehyung and Jungkook exchanged happy smiles.

 

"I'm so happy for you, Taehyung," Hyunbin said, watching him radiate joy.

 

Taehyung nodded, though he was still working on being fully comfortable with him.

 

Hyunbin smiled warmly and turned to walk away.

 

"Did you tell Yoonji?" Taehyung asked, stopping him.

 

"Er… no," Hyunbin admitted.

 

"You should."

 

"I was waiting for your marriage. I’ll tell her soon. I think she loves me too," Hyunbin said gently, his expression soft.

 

Taehyung nodded, genuinely happy for him.

 

As Hyunbin walked away, Taehyung turned to find Jungkook, who was talking with his parents. Seeing him, Taehyung couldn't help but smile. These days, just looking at Jungkook or hearing his voice brought a smile to his face.

 

Hyunbin noticed and smiled knowingly as he left.

 

Taehyung walked over to Jungkook, who immediately smiled and held out his hand. Taehyung interlocked their fingers, a warm sense of belonging washing over him.

 

Namseok and Sana watched them with pride and happiness.

 

"How is our home?" Taehyung asked them excitedly.

 

"Beautiful," Sana said with a bright smile.

 

"It’s all Taehyung," Jungkook said proudly.

 

"And Jackson," Taehyung added with a grin, before cheekily saying, "And Om’s money."

 

Jungkook chuckled. "Our money."

 

Grinning, Taehyung teased, "With the way I spent it on the flat, did you feel I considered it otherwise?"

 

Jungkook laughed out loud, pulling Taehyung closer as they shared a moment of pure joy.

 

 

Taehyung and Jungkook stepped into their bedroom, only to freeze as they saw the space adorned with romantic decorations for their wedding night.

 

Taehyung’s eyes widened, and he instinctively stepped back nervously. Jungkook glanced at him, equally surprised, before locking the door behind them.

 

Walking up to Taehyung, Jungkook gently placed his hands on his shoulders from behind and asked softly, "You did this?"

 

Taehyung shook his head nervously. "No... Did you?"

 

"Would I be asking if I did, you idiot?" Jungkook teased, making Taehyung chuckle despite his nerves.

 

"Then who?" Taehyung asked, turning to face him.

 

"Jackson, maybe? He had the keys to this place. Or Mom might’ve asked him to do it since no one else was allowed in here until today."

 

Taehyung nodded and took a deep breath, trying to relax. Sensing his unease, Jungkook leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to Taehyung’s cheek.

 

Taehyung gasped at the unexpected intimacy, his heart racing. Jungkook pulled back to look at him, amused by the deep blush spreading across Taehyung’s face as he looked down shyly.

 

Smiling, Jungkook kissed his forehead.

 

Unable to contain his shyness, Taehyung wrapped his arms around Jungkook in a hug. Jungkook happily returned the embrace.

 

"Enough for today, I guess," Jungkook joked, breaking the tension and earning a laugh from Taehyung.

 

 

---

 

Later, Taehyung sat on their bed, looking at Jungkook with curiosity.

 

"What am I going to do there?" Taehyung asked, referring to Jungkook's upcoming work trip.

 

"You’re going to be busy," Jungkook replied with a smirk.

 

"I’ll always have time for you, husband," he teased.

 

Jungkook chuckled and said, "Are you worried about being here alone? I can come home every night."

 

"No… it’s not that. I’ll manage," Taehyung replied. "And I’m more comfortable with Binnie now."

 

"Darling, it’s not that. I just want my husband with me," Jungkook said earnestly, making Taehyung smile.

 

"Will I be a disturbance?" Taehyung asked.

 

"Of course not," Jungkook reassured him.

 

Taehyung’s eyes lit up. "It can be like a mini honeymoon!" he said excitedly.

 

Grinning flirtatiously, Jungkook teased, "Why, Taehyung? Are you hinting at something?"

 

Blushing furiously, Taehyung shot back, "Shut up!"

 

Laughing, Jungkook said, "Go and pack your bag."

 

Taehyung got up and walked into the dressing room. As he began packing, he couldn’t help but think about Jungkook’s teasing, his cheeks flushing deeper at his own thoughts.

 

Noticing Taehyung’s dreamy expression, Jungkook hugged him from behind and asked, "What are you thinking?"

 

Taehyung tried to mask his embarrassment, saying, "About going shopping."

 

Jungkook groaned in mock annoyance, earning a laugh from Taehyung.

 

---

 

During their trip, Taehyung watched Jungkook intently as he worked. He seemed like a completely different person—commanding, sharp, and even a little intimidating.

 

It was a stark contrast to the soft and loving husband Jungkook was when they were alone.

 

As Jungkook caught Taehyung’s gaze, he mouthed, "Okay?"

 

Taehyung nodded with a smile, appreciating how Jungkook always checked on him, even in the middle of his busy day.

 

Jungkook made a habit of wrapping up work early so they could spend the evenings together. Whether it was sightseeing, shopping, or simply wandering the streets, they cherished every moment.

 

At night, they would share dinner and return to their room, feeling closer with each passing day.

 

Together, they were creating memories that would last a lifetime.

 

Taehyung had gone to visit his in-laws after their trip.

 

"Hi, Taehyung," Hyunbin greeted him as soon as he noticed him enter.

 

"You didn’t go to work?" Taehyung asked, trying to make conversation.

 

"Work from home today," Hyunbin replied with a smile.

 

Taehyung nodded. "How’s your job hunt going?"

 

"I got a callback," Taehyung said happily, his eyes lighting up.

 

"That’s great," Hyunbin said with genuine warmth.

 

The conversation fell silent for a moment. Taehyung wasn’t sure what to say next.

 

"She said yes," Hyunbin said, breaking the silence.

 

Taehyung looked at him and smiled. "Congratulations."

 

"Thanks," Hyunbin said, his expression soft. "I’m happy for you two, as well."

 

Taehyung smiled again, unsure how to respond.

 

"I saw the photos you sent Mom from your trip," Hyunbin said after a pause. "You two… I’m so happy for you. It’s clear that you both love each other."

 

Taehyung couldn’t help but smile brighter, feeling the warmth of Hyunbin’s words.

 

In that moment, Taehyung realized something profound—he was in love.

 

The feelings he had for Jungkook were unlike anything he had ever experienced. They were deep, intense, and undeniable. It wasn’t like what he thought he had felt for Hyunbin before. That had been something different, something borne out of familiarity and expectation.

 

Now he understood. He had mistaken a lifelong friendship for love because everyone around him had told him it was love. But with Jungkook, it was different.

 

And suddenly, he wanted to see Jungkook—right away.

 

"I’ve got to go home," Taehyung said quickly, standing up.

 

 

---

 

When Taehyung arrived home, Jungkook greeted him with a warm smile.

 

"You look happy," Jungkook said, noticing the glow on Taehyung’s face.

 

"I am happy," Taehyung replied, hugging him tightly.

 

"How come?" Jungkook asked, delighted by Taehyung’s enthusiasm.

 

"I realized something," Taehyung said, his voice laced with excitement.

 

"What’s that?" Jungkook asked curiously, still smiling.

 

"You were right," Taehyung confessed shyly. "I was never in love with Binnie."

 

Jungkook smirked smugly. "I’m always right. You just never admit it."

 

Right then and there, Taehyung decided this cocky attitude did not deserve a love confession.

 

"Get lost!" he said, pushing Jungkook away and walking off in mock annoyance.

 

 

---

 

Later that night, Taehyung and Jungkook lay on opposite ends of their bed. Jungkook shifted, turning to his side to face Taehyung.

 

Noticing the movement, Taehyung turned as well, catching Jungkook’s gaze.

 

Jungkook grinned as he propped his head up with his hand. "So, you didn’t tell me how you finally realized you never loved Binnie."

 

"Because I’m smart," Taehyung retorted playfully.

 

"Took you long enough," Jungkook teased.

 

Taehyung scowled at him, making Jungkook chuckle.

 

Jungkook scooted closer, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "You’re so happy today."

 

"I am," Taehyung admitted.

 

"Why?" Jungkook asked, curious.

 

Taehyung hesitated for a moment but didn’t answer. Instead, Jungkook leaned closer, gently rubbing his nose against Taehyung’s.

 

He moved up and kissed Taehyung’s forehead, then each of his cheeks.

 

As Jungkook started to pull back, Taehyung surprised him by grabbing his collar and pulling him closer.

 

Then, nervously but determined, Taehyung kissed Jungkook’s cheek—first one, then the other.

 

Afterward, Taehyung glanced at Jungkook’s lips, his nerves evident.

 

Jungkook caught on quickly. His expression softened as he leaned forward and kissed Taehyung’s forehead lovingly. Then, with a playful grin, he covered Taehyung’s eyes with his hand.

 

"Go to sleep," he said softly.

 

Taehyung blushed, understanding that Jungkook was being patient, waiting for the right time for deeper intimacy. He didn’t feel rushed or disappointed—he wanted everything to happen when they were both ready.

 

Smiling shyly, Taehyung hugged Jungkook tightly.

 

Jungkook held him close, gently pulling him onto his chest. They stayed that way, wrapped in warmth and comfort, as they drifted off to sleep.

 

---

 

The next morning, Taehyung heard sounds coming from the kitchen. Curious, he walked in to see Jungkook, standing with a large box, dumping knives into it.

 

"What are you doing?" Taehyung asked, puzzled.

 

"Good morning!" Jungkook greeted cheerfully. "Just removing all the dangerous weapons."

 

Taehyung furrowed his brows. "Why?"

 

"For safety," Jungkook replied nonchalantly.

 

"What?" Taehyung asked, more confused now.

 

Jungkook paused to think, scanning the counter. "Hmm... scissors." He grabbed them and added them to the box.

 

Taehyung approached the box, curious. He froze in shock when he saw its contents—knives, scissors, a stapler, and even a rolling pin.

 

"What happened to you?" Taehyung asked, bewildered.

 

Jungkook grinned mischievously. "I'll explain in a moment," he said, looking around the kitchen. "Do you see anything else?"

 

"Rolling pin," Taehyung said absentmindedly.

 

"Ah, good catch." Jungkook tossed it into the box and continued, adding potato peelers, butter knives, and forks to his collection.

 

Taehyung crossed his arms. "You better put everything back where it belongs."

 

Jungkook ignored him, walking to a cupboard. He shoved the box inside, locked the door, and pocketed the key.

 

"What are you doing, Jungkook? Should I call a doctor? Or maybe a psychiatrist?" Taehyung asked, only half-joking.

 

Jungkook turned to him with a radiant smile. "It’s confession time."

 

"What confession?" Taehyung asked, frowning at Jungkook’s inexplicable excitement.

 

Still grinning, Jungkook said, "I love you."

 

Taehyung’s heart skipped a beat. He couldn’t suppress the wide smile spreading across his face.

 

Jungkook beamed back at him, relieved and overjoyed. "Last night, it wasn’t that I wasn’t ready. I just didn’t want us to make love before I told you."

 

Taehyung’s smile turned into a playful scowl. "You could’ve just told me last night, idiot!"

 

Jungkook chuckled. "I didn’t have time to hide all the weapons."

 

"Weapons? For what?" Taehyung asked, now thoroughly baffled.

 

"In case you were upset," Jungkook admitted sheepishly.

 

Taehyung laughed, shaking his head.

 

Jungkook took a deep breath. "I love you, Taehyung," he said earnestly, his tone softening. "I’ve been in love with you since we were kids."

 

Taehyung’s smile faltered as shock washed over him. "What? Why didn’t you ever tell me?"

 

"Because you thought you were in love with Binnie," Jungkook replied with a hint of sadness.

 

"I’m sorry, Jungkookie," Taehyung said softly, taking a step closer to him.

 

Jungkook reached into his pocket and pulled out a worn piece of paper, handing it to Taehyung.

 

"What’s this?" Taehyung asked, curiosity flickering in his eyes as he unfolded it.

 

"The very first drawing I made of you," Jungkook said quietly.

 

Taehyung stared at the drawing, recognizing his younger self in the rough sketch. It wasn’t perfect—far from it. The lines were shaky, and there were scratches and small holes across the paper.

 

"What are these holes?" Taehyung asked, running his fingers over the damaged parts.

 

"I poked them with my compass," Jungkook admitted, scratching the back of his neck.

 

"You poked my face?" Taehyung asked, a little hurt.

 

"No!" Jungkook said quickly. "I poked the drawing."

 

"Why?"

 

Jungkook sighed. "Sometimes I got jealous seeing you with Binnie. So, I vented on the drawing."

 

Taehyung nodded slowly, absorbing his words.

 

Jungkook hesitated before continuing. "I always thought... if I hadn’t been so busy making that drawing, maybe Grandma wouldn’t have thought Binnie was the one for you."

 

"You loved me even back then?" Taehyung asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

 

"Since the moment I met you," Jungkook said, his gaze steady and full of emotion.

 

Taehyung stared at him, overwhelmed.

 

"I want to tell you everything," Jungkook said earnestly.

 

Taehyung nodded, ready to listen, his heart full of affection for the man who had loved him all along.

 

---

 

"Hyung, Taehyung and I are going to get married. You come and be the priest."

 

Jungkook clenched his book tighter, wanting to scream in frustration. He looked up to see Taehyung and Hyunbin standing together, smiling. The sight made his chest tighten. Without a word, he looked back at his book, feigning disinterest.

 

"Come, Jungkook," Taehyung called out to him.

 

"I'm reading, Taehyung," Jungkook replied flatly. "You guys play."

 

He muttered to himself, Even my dog could officiate your wedding, and it’d still be unfair.

 

"He won’t come," Hyunbin declared with a shrug.

 

"Okay… How do I wear this?" Taehyung asked, his voice laced with curiosity.

 

Jungkook tried to block out their voices, but it was impossible.

 

"I can’t walk!" Taehyung whined.

 

Jungkook peeked up and saw Taehyung wrapped so tightly in the hanbok that he couldn’t move.

 

"You’ll have to jump, then," Hyunbin offered unhelpfully.

 

Stupid idiot, Jungkook thought, rolling his eyes.

 

But then, the realization hit him—they were pretending to get married. Jungkook couldn’t let that happen. He had to intervene.

 

Looking around, he spotted a chameleon nearby.

 

"Is that a chameleon?" he asked, pointing.

 

"Where?" Hyunbin asked, his attention instantly diverted.

 

"It’s green," Jungkook said casually.

 

Hyunbin’s eyes lit up. "Taehyung, do you know chameleons change color? And their tongues are as long as a train!"

 

"Not that long," Jungkook corrected, rolling his eyes again and pretending to go back to his book.

 

"I’m going to catch it and take it home!" Hyunbin declared, already chasing after the creature.

 

Thank you, God.

 

Taehyung, meanwhile, looked torn. "Binnie, I have to put the hanbok back before Mumma notices it’s missing!"

 

"I’ll be back in a minute!" Hyunbin shouted, dashing off.

 

Jungkook watched him leave, then turned his attention to Taehyung, who was anxiously shifting on his feet, glancing between Hyunbin and his house.

 

He stood up and walked over. "I’ll help you, Taehyung."

 

"But Mumma will scold me," Taehyung said, fidgeting.

 

"We won’t tell her. We’ll put it back now," Jungkook reassured him as he started unwrapping the hanbok.

 

"Now you can’t get married," Jungkook said with a triumphant smirk, though his heart ached.

 

Taehyung pouted. "I’ll marry Binnie when I grow up."

 

Jungkook stayed silent, looking at Taehyung’s innocent expression. His small heart felt like it was breaking.

 

Why couldn’t Taehyung be mine? he wondered. At nine, he sadly questioned if he was too old for Taehyung, or if being the older brother made him unworthy.

 

He folded the hanbok neatly for Taehyung. "We’ll go put this back inside."

 

"What about Binnie?" Taehyung asked, glancing at Hyunbin, who was now shouting, "Squirrel!" as he chased after it.

 

"He’s always like this," Jungkook explained with a small smile. "He has ADHD."

 

"What’s that?" Taehyung asked, tilting his head in confusion.

 

"It means he gets distracted easily and can’t focus."

 

"Oh," Taehyung replied, nodding thoughtfully.

 

"Let’s go," Jungkook said.

 

Taehyung called out, "Binnie, we’re going inside to put the hanbok back!"

 

"Okay! I’ll catch the squirrel and come!" Hyunbin shouted back.

 

As Jungkook and Taehyung walked together, Jungkook glanced at Taehyung and felt a pang of sadness. The thought of leaving Taehyung behind in their hometown was unbearable.

 

"Will you come to Seoul, Taehyung?" Jungkook asked softly. "There are so many places to visit there. We’ll take you everywhere."

 

Taehyung stopped and looked at him with a worried expression. "What if Binnie gets distracted and forgets me? What if he leaves me behind?"

 

Jungkook crouched down to his eye level. "I’ll remember you. I won’t forget you."

 

Taehyung smiled brightly. "Then I’ll come."

 

Jungkook couldn’t help but smile back. Taking Taehyung’s small hand in his, he held it tightly. Taehyung happily hopped along beside him, holding his hand as they walked home.

 

At least for now, he’s with me, Jungkook thought, cherishing the moment.

 

"You purposely stopped that sham wedding we had?" Taehyung asked, amazed.

 

Grinning, Jungkook nodded. "Of course. I wasn’t going to let that happen."

 

"You said Binnie had ADHD!" Taehyung exclaimed.

 

Jungkook smirked. "I don’t even know if he does. I just said it on a whim."

 

"What?" Taehyung’s eyes widened in shock. "I thought he actually did!"

 

"Maybe… I don’t know. We never got him diagnosed. I just heard about ADHD in some drama Mom was watching."

 

Taehyung stared at him, dumbfounded. "Why didn’t you say anything back then?"

 

"Would it have made a difference?" Jungkook asked. "It would’ve made you uncomfortable and pushed you away."

 

Taehyung paused, realizing Jungkook was right. He nodded in agreement.

 

"Remember when Binnie and Yoongi threw me a birthday party?" Jungkook asked, his tone shifting.

 

"Yeah," Taehyung said, still processing the revelation.

 

Jungkook hesitated for a moment before continuing. "For the first time in my life, I saw Binnie focused. His attention didn’t waver even once."

 

Taehyung frowned. "What do you mean?"

 

Jungkook looked at him nervously. "He was staring at Yoonji."

 

"What?" Taehyung whispered, shocked.

 

"I thought... maybe that was my chance," Jungkook confessed. "I decided to try my luck."

 

 

---

 

Flashback

 

Jungkook sighed, glancing around the lively party. His gaze shifted to Hyunbin, who stood in a corner, oddly still. Frowning, Jungkook followed Hyunbin’s line of sight and froze.

 

Hyunbin was staring at Yoonji with an intensity Jungkook had never seen before—not even when Hyunbin was with Taehyung.

 

Jungkook’s mind raced. It felt like a rare opportunity—one he couldn’t let slip.

 

"Yoongi," Jungkook called out.

 

Yoongi turned to him. "Yeah?"

 

"Introduce Yoonji to Binnie," Jungkook said, his voice steady.

 

"What?" Yoongi raised an eyebrow, glancing between Hyunbin and Yoonji.

 

"Just do it," Jungkook insisted.

 

"Why is he staring at my sister like that?" Yoongi asked suspiciously.

 

"I’ve never seen him look at anyone like that," Jungkook said, sidestepping the question.

 

"Isn’t Hyunbin supposed to marry your family friend?" Yoongi pressed.

 

Jungkook shrugged. "That’s what people think. They’re just best friends."

 

Yoongi hummed in thought before nodding.

 

Just then, Hyunbin’s phone rang. "Hey, sweetheart!" he answered, his tone affectionate.

 

Jungkook’s stomach churned. Taehyung, he realized.

 

As Hyunbin ended the call, Jungkook nudged Yoongi. "Go. Introduce them now."

 

Yoongi walked off toward Yoonji and Hyunbin, but Jungkook didn’t wait to see what happened next. He pulled out his phone and stepped outside, dialing Taehyung’s number.

 

"Hey!" Taehyung answered, his voice bright. "How come you’re calling? Isn’t it your birthday party?"

 

Jungkook smiled softly at the familiar voice. "It’s boring."

 

Taehyung chuckled. "You always find parties boring."

 

Not if you were here, Jungkook thought.

 

"I wish I could’ve come," Taehyung said, sounding genuinely regretful.

 

"It would’ve been nice if you had," Jungkook replied.

 

"Tomorrow’s the wedding. Otherwise, I would’ve been there."

 

"Hmm."

 

"So, how’s the party?" Taehyung asked.

 

"Boring," Jungkook repeated, earning another laugh from Taehyung.

 

"You never like anything," Taehyung teased.

 

I like you, Jungkook wanted to say but didn’t. Instead, he muttered, "Parties just aren’t my thing."

 

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY!" Taehyung suddenly shouted, his excitement spilling through the phone.

 

Jungkook smiled wide. "Thanks. It’s midnight already?"

 

"Yeah! I was waiting to call you, but then you called first."

 

Hearing someone calling for him from inside, Jungkook sighed.

 

"Oh, they’re calling you. You should go," Taehyung said softly.

 

Jungkook lingered, reluctant to hang up. "I’ll talk to you later."

 

"Okay. Good night, Jungkookie," Taehyung said, his voice warm.

 

Jungkook ended the call with a bittersweet smile. If only you knew.

 

Taehyung frowned deeply, processing Jungkook's confession. "You introduced Yoonji to Binnie, so that Binnie would fall for her?"

 

"Kinda, yeah," Jungkook admitted with a sheepish nod.

 

Taehyung’s scowl deepened, anger flashing in his eyes.

 

"And… I kept bringing them together," Jungkook added, glancing away.

 

"What do you mean?" Taehyung asked, his tone sharp.

 

"You know... I’d purposely leave my stuff at Yoongi’s place and then send Binnie to pick it up when I was sure Yoonji was home. Little things like that," Jungkook explained with a half-shrug.

 

"You pushed them together," Taehyung said, his voice rising in anger.

 

Jungkook nodded, unbothered. "Binnie was too loyal to you. It took a while for him to finally accept that he loved Yoonji."

 

Taehyung narrowed his eyes. "And what else did you do?"

 

Jungkook hesitated for a moment, then smirked. "The day Binnie told me he liked Yoonji, you came over to my house."

 

Taehyung gasped in realization. "You came to fix our wedding!"

 

Grinning, Jungkook nodded.

 

"Grandma told me you kept insisting my happiness was your responsibility, that you had to find the right guy for me," Taehyung said, his voice trembling with shock.

 

"Of course," Jungkook said casually, "and I also brought up the humiliation you'd face if the engagement fell through."

 

Taehyung’s jaw dropped. "You manipulated her! And then you manipulated me by saying if I wasn’t happy, my family wouldn’t be happy. You manipulated all of us!"

 

Cheekily grinning, Jungkook replied, "I almost had a heart attack when your dad said he wouldn’t force you to marry me."

 

Taehyung glared at him, realization after realization hitting him. "Was it you who convinced Mom that we should have the wedding sooner?"

 

Jungkook gave him a smug smile.

 

"And you made me agree!" Taehyung exclaimed, his voice filled with disbelief.

 

Happily, Jungkook nodded.

 

Taehyung’s fury boiled over. "You forgot one weapon."

 

"What?" Jungkook asked, suddenly wary, glancing around the room nervously.

 

"My shoes," Taehyung said through gritted teeth, grabbing them.

 

"Baby, you love me now!" Jungkook shouted as he bolted into their bedroom.

 

"I’m going to kill you, you asshole!" Taehyung screamed, chasing him with a shoe in his hand.

 

Jungkook dove onto the bed, but Taehyung pounced on him, raining blows with the shoe.

 

"Ow, stop!" Jungkook yelled, trying to dodge. He managed to grab Taehyung’s wrist, toss the shoe aside, and roll them over until he was pinning Taehyung beneath him.

 

"You’re a dog!" Taehyung yelled, still fuming.

 

"I love you," Jungkook said, grinning down at him.

 

"You’re a bloody asshole!"

 

"I love you," Jungkook repeated, his tone softer.

 

"Poor Binnie," Taehyung muttered, momentarily distracted. "He’s been living with guilt all this time."

 

Jungkook shrugged, unrepentant. "Technically, I just pushed him toward Yoonji. He’s the one who went and fell in love with her."

 

Taehyung glared up at him, but his anger faltered against Jungkook’s mischievous yet sincere expression. "You’re impossible."

 

"And you’re mine," Jungkook whispered, leaning down to kiss him.

 

Taehyung sighed, his lips twitching into a reluctant smile. "You’re lucky I love you too."

 

Taehyung scowled. "You’re a psycho!"

 

"You love me," Jungkook reminded him smugly.

 

"You broke my heart," Taehyung snapped, his voice filled with lingering anger.

 

Jungkook’s tone softened. "All my life, I’ve lived with a broken heart, Taehyung."

 

Hearing those words, Taehyung’s anger melted. His hand instinctively reached for Jungkook’s cheek, cupping it gently. Jungkook leaned into the touch, then lowered his lips to Taehyung’s. The kiss started soft, but Taehyung kissed him back with a passion that spoke of both frustration and love.

 

When they broke apart, Taehyung asked softly, "Did you move out to keep me away from Binnie?"

 

Jungkook shook his head. "Whatever I did, I did to win you. From the moment you agreed to marry me, everything I did was for you."

 

"No more lies," Taehyung warned, his gaze firm.

 

"I promise," Jungkook whispered.

 

Satisfied, Taehyung kissed his cheek. "How can I stay mad at you? You’re the most perfect husband."

 

Jungkook smiled, his eyes lighting up.

 

Taehyung smirked. "Horrible human being. But the best husband."

 

Jungkook chuckled, leaning in to capture Taehyung’s lips once more.

 

 

---

 

Later that night...

 

Taehyung turned, careful not to wake Jungkook as he reached for his phone. But the moment he moved, Jungkook tightened his arms around him, pulling him closer.

 

Suspicious, Taehyung asked, "Are you awake?"

 

Jungkook didn’t respond, his breathing even.

 

Still doubting, Taehyung opened WhatsApp and messaged Hyunbin.

 

"Hi."

 

A beep sounded almost immediately.

 

"Hi... long time."

 

Taehyung smiled, touched by Hyunbin’s enthusiasm.

 

"Felt like talking to you."

 

"I miss you, Taehyung."

 

"I miss you too."

 

A soft growl escaped Jungkook.

 

Exasperated, Taehyung turned to him. "Either you openly read my messages or stop reacting to them!"

 

Still pretending to sleep, Jungkook stayed silent.

 

Taehyung sighed, typing again.

 

"How’s it going with Yoonji?"

 

"Amazing. Don’t tell hyung—I just left her place. Yoongi’s out of town. ;) "

 

Taehyung gasped. "He’s reading the messages!"

 

"Why is he reading? Tell him to get lost!"

 

Taehyung laughed, but when Jungkook growled again, he turned back with a glare. "You were doing so well! Now your jealousy is showing."

 

Jungkook hugged him tighter.

 

"Psycho," Taehyung muttered fondly.

 

Another message popped up.

 

"How’s it going with Jungkook? You love him, right? Yesterday, you didn’t say anything."

 

"No," Taehyung typed with a mischievous grin.

 

Jungkook bolted upright, eyes wide with shock.

 

"Gotcha," Taehyung teased smugly, laughing.

 

Groaning, Jungkook flopped back onto Taehyung.

 

"You can read them, Jungkook," Taehyung said, shaking his head. "Why act like you’re not when we both know you are?"

 

"He’s your best friend," Jungkook grumbled, hugging him.

 

Taehyung smirked. "Don’t tell me you’re plotting to replace him."

 

Jungkook chuckled. "Maybe. But I think I’ve always been jealous." His voice softened. "And heartbroken."

 

Taehyung’s expression softened too, and he leaned in to kiss Jungkook’s lips. "I love you, Jungkook."

 

"I love you too," Jungkook whispered back.

 

Taehyung turned to his phone and messaged Hyunbin.

 

"I love him. He’s my first and last love."

 

Jungkook peeked at the message and grinned. Turning to Taehyung, he pulled him into a deep, passionate kiss.

 

Taehyung smiled, but teased, "You promised—no more lies!"

 

"I promise," Jungkook murmured against his neck.

 

"You’re lying again," Taehyung accused, groaning.

 

Jungkook chuckled. "Never."

 

"Psycho," Taehyung muttered one last time.

 

"But only yours," Jungkook vowed. "Always have been. Always will be."

 

With a smile, Taehyung kissed him again, sealing the promise.

 

---