Chapter 7: Chapter 7: The Family's True Colors

The sun dipped low on the horizon as Jungkook stood by the window of the grand sitting room, hands clasped nervously. His family’s visit loomed over him like a storm cloud, stirring up feelings he had buried long ago.

Taehyung entered, his steps confident and deliberate. He approached Jungkook, his gaze sharp but softened with concern.

“You don’t have to face them alone,” Taehyung said, his deep voice grounding Jungkook.

“I know,” Jungkook murmured, his voice wavering. “But it’s not easy, Taehyung. They... they always make me feel small, like I don’t matter.”

Taehyung frowned, stepping closer. “You matter to me. Remember that.”

Jungkook gave him a small, grateful smile. “Thank you.”

Just then, the sound of a carriage arriving drew their attention. Jungkook’s heart raced as the butler announced the arrival of the Jeon family.

---

The grand doors opened to reveal Duke Jeon, Duchess Jeon, and Seoyoon. The Duke’s stern expression remained unchanged as he surveyed the lavish estate. The Duchess’s lips pursed in barely concealed envy, while Seoyoon’s eyes sparkled with curiosity and calculation.

Jungkook stepped forward, bowing politely. “Father, Mother, Seoyoon.”

His mother nodded curtly. “Jungkook.”

Seoyoon tilted her head, her tone sugary sweet. “It’s been so long, brother. You’ve certainly... upgraded your surroundings.”

Before Jungkook could respond, Taehyung entered the room, his presence commanding instant attention.

“Welcome to my home,” he said coolly, his gaze sweeping over the Jeons. “I trust your journey was comfortable?”

The Duke inclined his head stiffly. “It was, Your Grace. Thank you for receiving us.”

The tension in the air was palpable as they moved to the sitting room.

---

Seated around the polished oak table, the conversation started with thinly veiled jabs.

“You’ve certainly made yourself comfortable here,” the Duchess remarked, her tone laced with condescension.

Jungkook straightened his back, his voice steady. “It’s my home now, Mother.”

Seoyoon leaned forward, her eyes fixed on Taehyung. “Your Grace, I’ve heard tales of your bravery on the battlefield. It’s no wonder you’ve earned such a reputation.”

Taehyung’s expression remained unreadable. “Flattery is unnecessary, Lady Seoyoon.”

Seoyoon flushed but quickly recovered. “It’s not flattery, just admiration.”

Jungkook cringed inwardly, embarrassed by his sister’s blatant attempt to gain Taehyung’s favor.

The Duke cleared his throat. “Jungkook, I hope you remember your duties to your family. No matter where you are, you are still a Jeon.”

Jungkook met his father’s gaze, his hands trembling slightly. “My duty is to my husband now, Father.”

His mother sniffed disdainfully. “Don’t forget who raised you. Everything you are is because of us.”

Taehyung, who had been silent until now, spoke with icy authority. “Everything Jungkook is, he achieved despite you. I suggest you tread carefully in my home.”

The room fell silent, the weight of Taehyung’s words hanging heavily in the air.

---

After a strained tea service, the Jeons began their true objective.

“You see, Your Grace,” Seoyoon began, her voice syrupy sweet, “it’s such a shame that my parents never had the chance to introduce me properly. I believe we would get along quite well.”

Jungkook’s eyes widened, anger and hurt bubbling beneath the surface.

Taehyung’s cold gaze turned to Seoyoon. “You believe incorrectly. My wife is the only Jeon I care to know.”

Seoyoon’s expression faltered, and the Duke quickly intervened. “Your Grace, perhaps we could discuss a potential alliance between our families. Jungkook’s sister is—”

Taehyung stood abruptly, cutting him off. “This conversation is over. Jungkook, would you escort your family out?”

Jungkook nodded, rising from his seat. As Taehyung left the room, the Duke turned to his son with a scowl.

“You’ve embarrassed us,” he hissed.

“No,” Jungkook said firmly, his voice stronger than he thought possible. “You embarrassed yourselves.”

Seoyoon glared at him. “You think you’re important because you married the Duke? You’re nothing but a burden.”

Jungkook’s chest tightened, but he held his ground. “I’m not a burden. And I’m done trying to prove my worth to you.”

---

As the Jeons left, Taehyung appeared at Jungkook’s side, his hand resting gently on his shoulder.

“You handled that well,” Taehyung said, his tone warm.

Jungkook let out a shaky breath. “I couldn’t have done it without you.”

Taehyung’s lips quirked into a small smile. “You could have. But you don’t have to.”

For the first time, Jungkook felt the weight of his family’s judgment lift, replaced by the steady strength of Taehyung’s unwavering support.