Chapter 32

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Author's Point of View

It was another beautiful morning. Jungkook and Aera were still cuddled up in bed, the warmth of their shared sleep lingering between them. The packing had already been done, so Jungkook had no reason to worry about that.

Half an hour later, Jungkook decided to get up. Carefully, he slipped out of bed, making sure not to wake Aera. He went through his morning routine and headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast, leaving the little one to sleep a bit longer.

Once breakfast was ready, he gently woke Aera and helped her freshen up. They had their meal together, laughter and sleepy smiles filling the air before they got ready for the day.

By ten o'clock, they left for the Kim mansion. Jungkook had received a call from Jin earlier, saying, “I want to talk to you.”

When they arrived, Jin greeted them warmly. Jungkook noticed right away that the elder seemed troubled. His warm smile couldn’t quite mask the worry in his eyes.

Jimin, Yoongi, and Hobi were still on their way, as Taehyung had called them a while ago. But right now, Jungkook's focus was on Jin. Sensing the elder’s unease, Jungkook gently excused them and led Jin to the garden for some privacy.

“Eomma, you wanted to talk?” Jungkook asked, his voice soft as always.

Jin sighed, his fingers unconsciously gripping the fabric of his clothes. “Jungkook, I... I’m worried. About Taehyung. How will he react? What if he gets angry at me for keeping this from him?” His voice trembled slightly, betraying the emotions he had been holding back. “You trust me, right, Kook? I never wanted to hide this from him... but he’s my son. I can’t see him sad. It breaks my heart. He loves his Halmeoni so much, and I—I couldn’t bring myself to tell him something like this when I don’t even know what the future holds.”

Tears welled up in Jin’s eyes, and Jungkook immediately reached out, gently squeezing the elder’s hand.

“Eomma... please calm down,” Jungkook said, his tone reassuring. “I know you didn’t want to hide this from him. And I believe. Hyung will understand too. He won’t be angry.”

I hope

Jin let out a shaky breath, nodding slightly, though his worry didn’t fully fade.

“Did you talk to her?” Jungkook asked.

Jin wiped his eyes and nodded. “Yeah, I told her we were coming. I also mentioned that I haven’t told Taehyung anything yet. She said she’ll talk to him.”

Jungkook hummed in understanding.

“Oh, and one more thing…” Jin hesitated for a second before smiling softly. “I told her I’m bringing a special surprise for her.”

Jungkook tilted his head in confusion. “Surprise? You didn’t tell me about this.”

Jin chuckled at the younger’s adorable pout. “It’s you, Kook.”

Jungkook’s lips parted slightly in surprise before a deep blush bloomed on his cheeks. Jin cooed at his reaction, feeling momentarily at ease despite his worries.

Still, as much as Jungkook reassured him, a lingering fear remained in Jin’s heart. And deep down, Jungkook also prayed that Taehyung would react wisely.

Back inside, they saw that Hobi had arrived. Shortly after, Yoongi and Jimin also joined them.

A butler entered the living room, bowing slightly before speaking. “Sir, we’ve shifted everyone’s luggage to the bus.”

Taehyung, who was sitting on the couch with Aera in his lap, gave a small nod. “Alright.”

He looked around at everyone. “Shall we go?”

Jin nodded, standing up. Everyone followed, stepping outside where a luxurious bus stood waiting for them.

Aera’s eyes widened in excitement. “Dada, are we going in this bus?” she asked, her tiny hands clutching onto Taehyung’s shirt.

Taehyung smiled, lifting her in his arms. “Yes, Princess. Do you like it?”

Aera eagerly nodded, her face glowing with happiness.

“Let’s go inside,” Taehyung said, pressing a soft kiss to her temple. “It’s even more beautiful there.”

With Aera in his arms, Taehyung stepped onto the bus, and the little girl gasped in awe.

“Wow,” she whispered, looking around with wide eyes. “It’s so pretty, Dada!”

Taehyung chuckled, utterly endeared by her reaction.

Jungkook, who had just entered behind them, also took a look around. “It’s really beautiful, Hyung,” he murmured.

Taehyung turned toward him, a warm smile gracing his face. “Come,” he said, gently taking Jungkook’s wrist and guiding him to a seat.

Jungkook sat beside him, and soon, everyone else settled in as well. The journey began.

—

After nearly five hours of travel, they finally reached their destination. The clock read 4 PM, and everyone was exhausted from the long ride. Aera had fallen asleep in Jin’s arms, the elder gently patting her head.

The bus stopped a little distance away from a beautiful, traditional house.

As they stepped out, Jin described the house’s history and spoke fondly of Grandma Kim, making Jungkook feel both excited and nervous. He was truly grateful that Jin and Namjoon had accepted him and Aera wholeheartedly, but what about Taehyung’s Halmeoni? Would she accept him? Or would she reject him?

Meanwhile, Taehyung was visibly excited to introduce Jungkook to his dear Halmeoni, completely unaware of the nervous storm brewing inside the younger.

“It’s so beautiful, Unkie!” Aera squealed, running ahead with Jimin.

Jimin chuckled, chasing after her. “Angel, be careful—” Before he could finish, Aera tripped.

“Ouch,” she let out, her small hands barely stopping her fall.

Jimin caught her just in time. “Don’t run like that, sweetheart,” he scolded gently.

“Sorry, Unkie,” Aera pouted.

By then, everyone had gathered around.

“Are you okay, Princess?”

“Are you okay, Bubba?”

Taehyung and Jungkook asked in unison, concern evident in their voices.

“Yes, Mumma. Yes, Dada,” Aera reassured them, looking up with innocent eyes.

Yoongi scooped her up into his arms, carrying her as they resumed their walk toward the house.

Upon entering, the servants welcomed them warmly, informing them that Elder Kim lady was resting after taking her medication and so they decided to meet her later.

“Yoongi and Jimin, this one is yours.”

The couple nodded as Jin pointed toward the door of their room.

“Hobi, you’ll take the one beside them.”

“Now, only two rooms are left.” Jin turned to Taehyung. “So, you and your Appa will stay in one, while Jungkook, Aera, and I will share the other.”

“What?”

Taehyung and Namjoon blurted out at the same time.

Hearing each other’s reaction, they turned and exchanged looks. Namjoon raised an eyebrow, while Taehyung bit his tongue inside his mouth, realizing his outburst had been a little too obvious.

Jin sighed, already prepared for this reaction. “Joon, for God’s sake, we’re not newlyweds. We have a 24-year-old son.”

Jimin and Hobi stifled their laughter at Namjoon’s childish whining.

Meanwhile, Jungkook’s gaze lingered on Taehyung, noticing how the elder was avoiding eye contact with him.

Did Hyung actually thought he will be staying in the same room as me?

A faint blush dusted Jungkook’s cheeks at the thought.

Jin, ignoring his husband’s protests, called for Jungkook.

“Kook, let’s go. Our luggage is already inside.”

Jungkook took Aera from Yoongi and followed Jin. What he didn’t notice, however, was the slight pout that formed on Taehyung’s lips as he watched them go.

The evening had settled into a peaceful lull, and the grand estate was quiet as everyone rested in their rooms. Aera, too, had found comfort in her favorite place—snuggled up in Hobi’s arms as he cradled her in his bed. She had fallen asleep soon after Jungkook had freshened her up, her tiny fingers gripping Hobi’s shirt as she breathed softly against his chest.

Jungkook, meanwhile, stood by the window of his room, gazing out at the beautiful scenery. The night sky stretched endlessly before him, adorned with shimmering stars that cast a soft glow over the vast gardens below. The gentle rustling of leaves accompanied the distant chirping of crickets, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. Their belongings had already been unpacked, and yet, there was a strange weight in Jungkook’s chest—an uneasiness that he couldn’t quite shake off.

He was alone in the room, as Jin had stepped out for a while. A few minutes later, the sound of approaching footsteps drew Jungkook’s attention. He turned just as Jin entered with a warm smile.

“Kookie, I want you to meet someone,” Jin said gently, his tone filled with anticipation.

Jungkook blinked and nodded, but as realization hit him, a nervous lump formed in his throat. “Eomma… ar-are we going to meet Hyung's Halmeoni?” he asked hesitantly, his voice laced with unease.

Jin gave him a small nod, but before he could say anything, Jungkook stopped in his tracks. His heart pounded erratically as an overwhelming wave of anxiety washed over him. “Eomma, wh-what if s-she doesn’t like me?” he stuttered, his voice barely above a whisper as he lowered his gaze.

This feeling—this fear—was unlike anything he had ever experienced before. His thoughts spiraled, and the worst possibility crept into his mind— What if she rejects me? What if she doesn’t approve of me being with Taehyung? Area, will she accept her? The mere thought sent a shiver down his spine, and his grip on his own hands tightened.

Jin’s heart clenched at the sight of the younger’s distress. He immediately cupped Jungkook’s face with both hands, his thumbs brushing against his soft cheeks. “Baby, no one can dislike you. Trust me,” he whispered, his voice filled with nothing but sincerity and love.

Jungkook wasn’t fully convinced, but the warmth in Jin’s eyes was reassuring. He exhaled shakily and gave a small nod. Jin smiled, giving his cheek a gentle pat before leading him towards the room.

As they reached the door, Jin turned to Jungkook once more. “I told you I want to present you as a surprise, right? So wait here for two minutes ok?” he requested softly.

Jungkook nodded wordlessly, his fingers fidgeting as Jin slipped inside the room.

Inside, the room was dimly lit, the warm glow of a lamp casting soft shadows on the walls. An elderly woman in her seventies sat on the bed, her frail yet dignified form resting comfortably against the cushions. The moment she saw Jin, her lips curled into a gentle smile.

“How are you, Eomma?” Jin asked as he approached, his voice carrying warmth and affection.

“I’m fine, Jinie. How are you?” she replied, her voice steady despite the years that had passed.

Jin sat beside her, taking her hand in his. “I’m good” he assured her before squeezing her hand slightly. “Eomma, I want you to meet someone,” he said, his tone carrying excitement.

“Whom?” the old lady asked, curiosity flickering in her eyes.

Jin turned towards the door and called out, “Jungkookie.”

At the sound of his name, Jungkook inhaled deeply and stepped into the room. His steps were slow, hesitant, yet his face held a small, beautiful smile. He approached the bed and bowed deeply, his naturally sweet voice filling the quiet space.

“It’s really nice to meet you, Mrs Kim,” he said softly.

The old lady observed him for a moment before an unconscious smile graced her lips.

Jin grinned. “Eomma, meet Jungkook… Jeon Jungkook, our Tae’s boyfriend.” His voice was filled with pride and joy.

The elderly woman’s eyes showed surprise for a moment before they softened. “Come here, dear,” she beckoned.

Jin nudged Jungkook lightly, and the younger obeyed, carefully sitting on the bed facing her.

They talked for a while, and she asked him questions—his age, his interests, his background. Jungkook answered everything honestly, his nervousness slowly melting as he found comfort in the warmth of her presence.

Then, Jin carefully brought up Aera's topic, explaining Jungkook’s past and everything he had gone through. Of course, he had asked Jungkook beforehand, and the younger had given his permission.

The room fell silent for a moment as the elderly woman processed the information. Then, she reached out and gently patted Jungkook’s head. “So proud of you, dear. I must say, you are very courageous,” she said with admiration.

At that, Jungkook felt his throat tighten with emotions. He had braced himself for rejection, but instead, she had welcomed him with kindness. His eyes burned slightly, but he held back his tears. He was relieved—so relieved.

—

After dinner, the estate settled into a peaceful silence. Aera was in the courtyard, playing with her uncles, while Namjoon was still whining to Jin about not sharing a room.

Meanwhile, Jungkook stood near the window of his room, gazing at the starry sky again. The cool night breeze brushed against his skin, carrying the scent of blooming flowers. He loved the view. He sighed softly, lost in thoughts.

Suddenly, two familiar arms wrapped around his waist from behind, and a warm head rested against his shoulder. Jungkook’s body stiffened for a moment before quickly recognizing the familiar presence. A shy smile crept onto his lips.

They stood there in silence, simply holding each other, letting the night’s tranquility surround them.

“Aren’t you sleepy, Hyung?” Jungkook asked, placing his hand over Taehyung’s.

Taehyung shook his head and tightened his grip around Jungkook’s waist.

“Hyung, I met your Halmeoni this evening,” Jungkook murmured softly.

Taehyung immediately turned him around, his eyes wide with surprise. “Really?”

Jungkook nodded.

“You didn’t tell me,” Taehyung pouted, crossing his arms.

Jungkook chuckled. “Sorry, Hyungie… Eomma took me there. You were resting, so I couldn’t tell you.”

Taehyung hummed in understanding. “What did she say? I’m sure Halmeoni liked you a lot.” His voice was filled with certainty.

Jungkook blushed and looked down, feeling shy.

A moment later, Taehyung cupped Jungkook’s cheek, his thumb gently caressing the soft skin. His voice dropped to a tender whisper. “I love you, Bun.”

Jungkook’s eyes widened at the sudden confession, and his heart skipped a beat. He quickly buried his face in Taehyung’s chest, his ears turning red.

“I love you too,” he mumbled into the fabric of Taehyung’s shirt.

Taehyung smiled and tightened his embrace.

Their moment was cut short when Jin entered the room, carrying a sleeping Aera in his arms. He carefully placed her in the middle of the bed before clearing his throat.

The two lovers quickly stepped apart, suddenly looking guilty.

Jin smirked. “I didn’t mean to interrupt… but Aera was asleep, so I thought I’d put her to bed.”

Taehyung’s face turned red. “Eo-Eomma, w-we were just talking!” he stammered.

Jin laughed. “But I didn’t ask anything?”

Flustered, Taehyung hurriedly said, “I-I should leave now! Bye, Bun… Good night.”

Jungkook giggled softly as Taehyung fled the room, his ears still burning.

Jin turned to Jungkook and teased, “Aww, my shy baby.”

Jungkook whined, “Eomma,” before hugging Jin tightly.

And with that, the night ended, bringing the promise of another beautiful day ahead.

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ᴛ ᴀ ᴇ ᴋ ᴏ ᴏ ᴋ

Preview ~

Next morning