Chapter 42

I apologize for any errors you may encounter in this chapter, as I couldn't proofread it due to time constraints. 💌

Let's start!

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Author's Point of View

The next morning, the Kim mansion was alive with activity. Jin was in the kitchen preparing breakfast, while Namjoon was in the living room, sitting on the couch with Aera on his lap as it was off day for her. The little girl was excitedly flipping through a picture book, pointing at the colorful illustrations and asking questions.

"Grandpa, why is the lion so big?' Aera asked, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"Because the lion is the king of the jungle, sweetheart," Namjoon explained, his voice filled with patience and affection.

"Grandpa you know, Grandma says I’m the queen of our house!" Aera giggled, causing Namjoon to laugh.

"Because you are!" Namjoon said, kissing her forehead.

Just then, Taehyung walked into the living room, still dressed in his casual loungewear. He had a cup of coffee in one hand and a warm smile on his face.

"Good morning, My queen," he teased, bowing dramatically to Aera.

Aera clapped her hands in delight. "Good morning, Dada!"

Jungkook entered right behind him, carrying a basket of freshly folded laundry. "What's going on here? A royal meeting without me?" he teased, setting the basket down.

"Mumma, you're the knight!" Aera declared, jumping off Namjoon's lap and running to Jungkook.

"Knight?" Jungkook asked, pretending to be shocked. "I thought I was the Queen!"

Taehyung smirked. "Sorry, love. Aera is the queen, and I guess I'm her loyal subject."

Yuri walked in moments later, dressed impeccably as always, with a polished look that seemed out of place compared to the cozy family scene. She paused near the doorway, her eyes scanning the room. Her gaze lingered on Taehyung, who was now sitting cross-legged on the floor, helping Aera organize her crayons.

Yuri's thoughts drifted to the first time she met Taehyung three years ago. It was a grand party held in Taehyung's honor for completing a prestigious architectural project. Taehyung had looked so dashing in his tailored suit, his confidence lighting up the room. She remembered how her heart raced when he shook her hand, his polite smile making her knees weak.

From that day, she had been drawn to him. At first, it was a harmless crush, but as time passed, her feelings deepened into something far more than just a crush. She couldn't stand the thought of anyone else being close to him, let alone someone like Jungkook, who, in her eyes, was beneath her.

"Good morning," Yuri said, her voice overly cheerful as she made her way towards everyone.

"Good morning," Taehyung replied as he knew his father was present in the room but, without looking up, focused on Aera's coloring.

"Morning," Jungkook said curtly, carrying the laundry basket toward the hallway.

Yuri stepped further into the room and turned to Namjoon, who was now sipping his tea. "Uncle, do you have any plans for today?"

"Not really," Namjoon replied. "I was thinking of taking Aera to the park later. She loves the swings."

"Oh, that sounds lovely," Yuri said with a sweet smile. "Can i join? Also Taehyung, why don't you join us?"

Taehyung glanced up briefly. "I have a meeting this afternoon." He said looking at Aera who smiled, showing her bunny teeth.

Yuri's smile faltered for a moment before she recovered. "You work so hard, Taehyung. I wonder if you ever take time for yourself."

"I manage," Taehyung said simply, turning back to Aera.

Jungkook reentered the room, his eyes narrowing slightly as he caught the tail end of Yuri's comment. He walked over to Taehyung and placed a hand on his shoulder. "He doesn't need to worry about that. I make sure he's well taken care of."

Taehyung smiled up at Jungkook, his expression filled with warmth. "And you do an amazing job of it."

The remainder of the day passed without incident. Aera spent her time with her grandpa, accompanied by Yuri, who followed closely behind. Meanwhile, Jungkook and Jin were occupied with their household chores and Taehyung with his meeting because of which he couldn't join his Princess.

At night, the dining room was glowing with the warm lights. The table was set with an array of dishes that Jin and Jungkook had carefully prepared roasted chicken, steamed vegetables, kimchi stew, and a platter of freshly baked bread. Aera sat at her usual spot beside Jungkook, swinging her legs happily under the table, while Namjoon was at the head, his smile serene.

Taehyung pulled out a chair for Jungkook before settling beside him, leaning over to whisper something in his ear that made Jungkook chuckle softly. Yuri sat across from them, her polished appearance slightly stiff as she watched their easy affection.

"Dinner smells amazing, Eomma," Taehyung said, serving Aera a small portion of chicken.

"Thank you, baby," Jin replied, wiping his hands on a dish towel. "Eat up, everyone. We made plenty!"

As the family began to dig into their meal, Aera spoke up. "Mumma, I want more rice, please!"

Jungkook immediately reached for the rice bowl. "Here you go, Bubba."

Yuri interjected, reaching for the same bowl. "Oh, let me serve her, Jungkook."

Jungkook's hand froze for a moment before he smoothly pulled the bowl toward himself. "It's fine. I've got it."

Yuri's smile didn't falter, but her grip on her chopsticks tightened. "You're such a doting parent, Jungkook."

Jungkook placed the rice on Aera's plate and smiled warmly at her, ignoring Yuri's remark. "Only the best for my little angel."

"So, Taehyung," Yuri began, her voice light and casual, "How's the new project coming along? I hear the Seoul branch is buzzing with excitement over your designs."

"It's going well," Taehyung replied politely. "We're in the final stages of planning. Yoongi Hyung has been a great help."

"Yoongi always delivers," Namjoon added, nodding. "He's been an asset to the company for years."

Jin chimed in, "And don't forget how hard Taehyungie works. He's taken the company to new heights."

Taehyung smiled modestly. "It's a team effort, Eomma"

Yuri leaned forward slightly. "You must be so busy. It's impressive how you juggle work and family. It must be overwhelming sometimes?"

Jungkook glanced at Yuri, sensing the underlying intent in her reply. "He handles it just fine," Jungkook said firmly. "And when it gets tough, I'm here to support him."

Yuri's lips curled into a small smile. "That's wonderful. But sometimes, even the best support can't solve everything." She turned to Taehyung. "If you ever need someone to talk to about work pressures, you know I'm always here."

Taehyung's expression didn't waver. "Thanks, Miss Yuri, but Jungkook and I talk about everything. He's my greatest confidant."

Jungkook smiled at Taehyung, his hand subtly brushing against his under the table.

"Dada, can I have more soup?" Aera asked, breaking the tension.

"Of course, Princess," Taehyung said, reaching for the soup pot.

Yuri quickly stood up. "I'll get it!" She grabbed the ladle and served Aera a bowl, her smile overly bright. "Here you go, sweetie."

Aera frowned slightly and turned to Taehyung. "Dada, you always blow on it first so it's not too hot."

Taehyung took the bowl from Yuri's hands, his tone gentle. "Thank you, Yuri, but I've got it." He blew on the soup before placing it in front of Aera, who grinned happily.

"Perfect!" Aera exclaimed.

Namjoon chuckled at the exchange, completely unaware of the tension simmering in Yuri. "Aera really has you wrapped around her little finger, Taehyung."

"She deserves the best," Taehyung said, ruffling Aera's hair.

After dinner, Jin brought out a tray of freshly baked cookies and a small cake for dessert. Aera's eyes lit up, and she clapped her hands. "Cake!"

Jungkook cut a slice for her, placing it carefully on her plate. Yuri, still desperate for attention, leaned forward. "Taehyung, you must try this first. Jin Uncle's cakes are the best."

She held out a forkful of cake toward Taehyung, a gesture that made everyone at the table pause.

Jungkook's jaw tightened, but before he could say anything, Taehyung shook his head with a polite smile. "Thank you, Yuri, but I can manage."

Yuri's hand hovered awkwardly before she placed the fork down, her smile faltering.

As the family moved to the living room, Yuri lingered in the dining room, her nails digging into her palms. No matter how hard she tried to insert herself into their lives, she was always an outsider, watching their love and warmth from a distance.

In her mind, she vowed to change that. She wasn't ready to give up— not yet.

—

The next day, Yuri showed up unannounced at Taehyung's office. Yoongi, who had long been wary of her intentions, intercepted her at the reception desk.

"Miss Yuri, what brings you here?" he asked, his tone cool.

"I'm here to see Taehyung," she replied, feigning sweetness.

"Do you have an appointment?"

"Yoongi, you know I don't need one. We're practically family," she said, brushing past him.

Yoongi sighed but didn't stop her. He knew Taehyung could handle her, though he wished she'd just disappear.

Inside the office, Taehyung was reviewing project designs when Yuri barged in. He looked up, his expression immediately guarded.

"Miss Yuri, what are you doing here?"

"I just wanted to see you,” she said, closing the door behind her. "You've been avoiding me."

"I've been busy," Taehyung replied curtly.

"With Jungkook, no doubt," she spat, her mask of sweetness slipping. "You know, he's not good enough for you. He's just a former café worker. You deserve someone better."

Taehyung's jaw tightened. "Yuri, this conversation is over. Leave."

Her eyes filled with tears, but Taehyung was unmoved. "You're making a mistake, Taehyung. I could give you so much more than he ever could."

"Get out," Taehyung said firmly, his voice low but commanding.

Yuri stormed out, her heart pounding with rage.

Evening | Hospital

The soft hum of machines and faint chatter from the hallway filled the hospital room where Grandma Kim rested, propped up against pillows. Despite her age, her eyes were sharp, brimming with curiosity and wit.

"Come in," she called out in response to the knock at her door.

An young girl stepped in, clutching a bouquet of lilies with an overly bright smile. "Good afternoon, Mrs. Kim. I'm Yuri. I've heard so much about you and thought I'd visit. I hope you don't mind."

"I heard you weren't feeling well, so I thought it would be nice to check on you, It's lovely to meet you." She said.

Grandma's eyes scanned Yuri from head to toe. Her face remained pleasant, but there was a glint of playful mischief in her gaze. "Ah, so you're Yuri. Namjoon and Jin mentioned you."

"I hope they said good things," Yuri replied with a small laugh, setting the lilies on the side table.

Grandma Kim smirked. "They said you're ambitious. That's a good thing. It means you don't waste time."

Yuri's smile brightened. "That's kind of them. I just wanted to check on you and bring you these flowers. Lilies symbolizes purity, which I thought was fitting."

Grandma tilted her head slightly, her fingers tapping lightly on the book in her lap. "Purity? Hmm, interesting choice. Did you know they're also used for funerals? Bit of a double-edged flower, wouldn't you say?"

Yuri blinked, taken aback for a moment. "I— I hadn't thought of that. But I assure you, my intentions were purely to brighten your day."

Before Grandma could respond, the door swung open.

"Halmeoni!" Jimin called cheerfully, his face lighting up as he saw her. "I brought you some of those peanut cookies you love."

"Jiminie!" Grandma called excitedly, her tone immediately warm. "You always know how to spoil me."

Jimin placed the tray on the bedside table and then noticed Yuri. His cheerful expression faltered for the briefest second before he forced a polite smile. "Oh, Yuri. Didn’t expect to see you here."

Before anyone could respond, the door swung open again, Aera broke away from Taehyung and ran to the bed. "Halmeoni!" she squealed, climbing up to sit beside her.

Grandma's face lit up. "There's my star! Oh, look at you. Are you getting taller? Or am I shrinking?"

"You're not shrinking!" Aera giggled, leaning into her great-grandmother’s arms. "Mumma said I look like a princess today."

"And he's absolutely right," Grandma said, smoothing Aera's dress. "You're the most beautiful princess in all of Korea."

Taehyung smiled warmly at the scene, his heart full as he watched his grandmother and daughter bond. Yuri, meanwhile, lingered near the bed, trying to edge into the moment. Taehyung was shocked to see her their but decided to ignore as always.

"Mrs. Kim," Yuri said with a sweet smile, "you're looking so well. It must be because you're surrounded by such a loving family."

Grandma glanced at her, her smile remaining polite but her eyes slightly sharper. "Oh, it's all thanks to my little ones here keeping me entertained," she said, patting Aera's head. "You know, they're the best medicine."

Jungkook, standing by Taehyung, caught the subtext in Grandma's words and bit back a grin. Jimin, however, wasn't as subtle, his smirk growing as Yuri's smile tightened.

"Yuri, dear," Grandma continued, her tone light but layered, "You must find this family so lively. Everyone always has something going on. It takes a sharp mind to keep up with them."

"Oh, it's wonderful," Yuri replied, her voice just a little too bright. "I feel so lucky to be included."

Grandma chuckled, looking at Aera. "What do you think, little star? Should we make Yuri a part of our tea party next time?"

Aera wrinkled her nose. "But Minnie Unkie is funnier."

Jimin burst into laughter, leaning down to high-five Aera. "That's my girl!"

Yuri's cheeks flushed as the room filled with laughter. Taehyung shot Jimin a warning look, though his lips twitched in amusement.

As the visit continued, Grandma effortlessly kept the atmosphere light and playful, steering conversations and interactions with her usual charm. Yuri's attempts to shine were subtly but firmly deflected, leaving her feeling sidelined yet unable to voice her frustration.

When it was time to leave, Grandma hugged everyone tightly, her sharp gaze lingering on Taehyung and Jungkook. "You two take care of each other, alright? And Aera, don't let them eat all the cookies without you."

"Yes, Halmeoni!" Aera replied, throwing her arms around her great-grandmother.

As the family filed out, Grandma's eyes flicked to Jimin, her voice low but mischievous. "Keep an eye on the extras, Minie. Some guests linger a little too long."

Jimin's grin widened as he nodded. "Always, Halmeoni! Always."

—

The next morning, Namjoon was sitting in the study, going through some documents when Yuri entered.

"Good morning, Uncle Namjoon," she greeted warmly.

"Good morning, Yuri," Namjoon replied, looking up with a kind smile. "How's your stay so far?"

"Oh, it's wonderful," Yuri said, taking a seat across from him. "The house is beautiful, and it's always nice to spend time with Taehyung."

Namjoon chuckled. "He's very busy these days, but I'm glad you two get along. It's important for families and friends to stay connected."

"Of course," Yuri said, her voice sweet but her mind calculating. "I've always admired Taehyung. He's so hardworking and talented. I just hope he's not overburdened."

Namjoon waved a hand dismissively. "He manages it well, especially with Jungkook's support. They're a good team."

Yuri's smile tightened. "Yes, they seem close."

"They are," Namjoon said, oblivious to her tone. "Jungkook has been wonderful for Taehyung. You should have seen how much happier he's been since they got married."

Yuri bit the inside of her cheek, trying to keep her frustration from showing.

"I suppose it's good he has someone to lean on," Yuri said carefully. "But don't you think, sometimes a spouse might hold him back? I mean, Taehyung's career is so demanding."

Namjoon frowned slightly. "Not at all. Jungkook balances him. They complement each other perfectly. Besides, Taehyung always says, He wouldn't be the man he is without his family."

Before Yuri could respond, Jin entered the room, carrying a tray of snacks.

"Yuri, there you are," Jin said warmly. "I made some of your favorite cookies. You used to love these as before."

Yuri forced a smile. "Thank you, Uncle Jin."

"Taehyung and Jungkook are in the garden with Aera," Jin added. "You should join them. It's such a lovely day."

Yuri nodded, though the last thing she wanted was to see the family enjoying themselves.

—

Later that day, Yuri found Jungkook alone in the living room, folding Aera's clothes. She decided it was the perfect opportunity to strike.

"Jungkook, you're always so hands-on with Aera," Yuri said, sitting down on the couch.

"She's my daughter. Why wouldn't I be?" Jungkook replied, not looking up.

"It's just— Taehyung is so busy. Do you ever feel like you're the one doing most of the parenting?"

Jungkook paused for a moment before continuing his task. "We're partners. Taehyung does everything he can for Aera and me."

Yuri leaned forward, her voice soft and conspiratorial. "I'm just saying, being a CEO takes a lot of time. I've seen how demanding his schedule is. It wouldn't be surprising if he— I don’t know, found comfort in someone who understood that world better."

Jungkook finally looked up, his eyes sharp. "What are you trying to say, Yuri?"

"Oh, nothing," she said quickly, feigning innocence. "I just— I've known Taehyung for a long time. He's always had people around him who admired him. It's natural for someone like him to attract attention."

Jungkook's gaze didn't waver. "I trust my husband, Yuri. Completely."

Yuri smiled tightly. "Of course. I didn't mean anything by it."

But as Jungkook turned back to his task, Yuri seethed internally. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't crack the foundation of their relationship.

Yet.

That evening, the family gathered in the dining room for dinner. The long table was filled with delicious dishes that Jin and Jungkook had lovingly prepared.

Namjoon sat at the head of the table, beaming as Aera recounted her day at kindergarten.

"And then, my friend drew a rainbow, but it didn't have purple!" Aera exclaimed, giggling as she talked to her grandparents.

"Oh no, a rainbow without purple? That's a disaster!" Jin teased, laughing as he served more rice onto her plate.

"It's okay, Grandma! I added it for her!" Aera said proudly.

Namjoon chuckled, patting her head. "That's our smart baby."

Yuri sat beside Namjoon, watching the interaction with a polite smile, though her grip on her fork tightened every time Taehyung looked at Jungkook with soft affection. She hated how natural they looked together— like a perfect little family.

"Taehyung," Yuri began, feigning casualness, "Do you remember the gala three years ago? The one at the art museum?"

Taehyung, cutting into his steak, barely glanced at her. "Not really. I've been to a lot of galas."

"Oh, but that one was special," Yuri pressed. "You and I spent the entire evening talking about art and architecture. Everyone thought we were such a great pair."

Jungkook's jaw tightened slightly, but he didn't react outwardly. Namjoon, however, smiled fondly.

"Taehyung has always been charming," Namjoon said, oblivious to the tension. "He's inherited his mother's ability to win people over."

Jin nodded, "He has a way of making people feel special. Don't you think so, kookie?"

Jungkook smiled softly. "Absolutely. It's one of the many reasons I fell in love with him."

Taehyung reached under the table, squeezing Jungkook's hand. "And you're the reason I smile every day."

Yuri's forced smile faltered, and she quickly took a bite of her dish to hide her irritation.

"That's sweet," she said, though her tone was clipped. "But being a CEO must be exhausting. It's surprising you still have time for family."

"Family comes first," Taehyung said firmly, glancing at Aera, who was now playing with her peas.

"Always," Jungkook added, his tone equally resolute.

—

At night, Yuri locked herself in her guest room, seething. The constant display of love between Taehyung and Jungkook was unbearable. Even Aera, with her innocent smile and endless energy, was a thorn in her side.

The week stretched ahead, and Yuri knew she had plenty of time to plant seeds of discord. Her hatred for Jungkook burned brighter with each passing moment, and her obsession with Taehyung consumed her.

In her mind, she had already decided Jungkook and Aera had to go. Only then would Taehyung see that she was the one he truly needed.

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Preview ~

To be continued