Chapter 46

This one is my personally favorite chapter... 💌

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Author's Point of View

Three black SUVs stood parked in the middle of the road, effectively blocking Namjoon's car. The vehicles loomed like silent sentinels, their presence both deliberate and menacing. The doors of all three opened simultaneously, and nine tall, muscular men stepped out. Each one was dressed in black, their stern faces hinting at trouble. They spread out, forming a circle around Namjoon's car, cutting off any escape.

"What's happening?" Taehyung asked, his voice low but steady, his sharp gaze fixed on the scene outside.

Namjoon's hands tightened on the steering wheel as he took in the situation, his mind working rapidly. "Stay calm and stay alert," he instructed firmly, his tone commanding but laced with caution.

The four of them watched intently as one of the men moved to the first SUV and opened the back door. Out stepped a figure cloaked in a sleek black coat, their silhouette illuminated by the SUV's headlights. As the figure drew closer, Taehyung's expression hardened, recognition flickering in his eyes.

"Yuri," Taehyung whispered. Despise the tension, his voice carrying a mix of disbelief and rising anger.

Namjoon's jaw tightened, his expression unreadable but his knuckles white as they gripped the wheel. Jungkook's gaze was sharp, his protective instincts kicking in as his hand moved to clasp Taehyung's. Even Yoongi, calm and composed by nature, had a dangerous glint in his eyes as he observed the unfolding confrontation.

Yuri walked toward them with calculated steps, her heels clicking sharply against the pavement. Her long coat billowed behind her as she stopped a few feet from the car. Her arms crossed, and a cold, smug smile spread across her face as she surveyed them.

"Good evening," she said smoothly, her voice calm but brimming with arrogance. "It's been far too long, hasn't it?"

Namjoon rolled down the window, his glare sharp enough to cut glass. "Yuri, what is the meaning of this? What are you trying to pull?"

She tilted her head, a fake innocence masking her real intentions. "Oh, Uncle Namjoon, let's not play games. You know exactly why I'm here."

Taehyung's voice cut through the air, firm and filled with disdain. "Then stop wasting time. Say what you came to say."

Yuri's smile faltered, her expression hardening. "What I want hasn't changed," she said, her voice sharp. Her piercing gaze shifted to Taehyung. "I want you."

Taehyung's eyes blazed with anger, but before he could speak, Yuri's gaze turned to Jungkook. Her smile returned, but it was cruel now. "And as for you, Jungkook," she said, her voice dripping with venom, "you've been in my way for far too long. Tonight, it ends."

Jungkook's hand tightened around Taehyung's, his anger controlled but palpable. "If you think this ends with you winning, you're more delusional than I thought," he said coolly, his tone carrying a dangerous edge.

Yuri smirked, raising an eyebrow. "We'll see."

Without another word, Jungkook let go of Taehyung's hand and stepped out of the car. His movements were calm, deliberate. His stance exuded quiet strength, and his sharp eyes locked onto the men standing before him. He was like a storm brewing, powerful and unshakable.

"Jungkook!" Taehyung called after him. He pushed his side of door open and stepped out as well, followed closely by Yoongi and Namjoon.

"We're not letting you face this alone," Taehyung said, his voice unwavering.

Jungkook glanced at him briefly, his lips twitching into a faint smile. "Stay close, then," he said, his attention already returning to the group surrounding them.

The standoff broke like a crack of thunder when one of Yuri's men lunged at Jungkook. Moving with blinding speed, Jungkook sidestepped the attack and twisted the man's arm, sending him crashing to the ground with ease.

The other men hesitated for a split second, clearly not expecting such skill. But Yuri's sharp voice snapped them out of it. "What are you waiting for? Take him down!"

The group surged forward as one, but Jungkook was a step ahead. His movements were precise, almost graceful, as he dodged, blocked, and countered their attacks. A swift kick sent one man stumbling back, while a perfectly timed punch rendered another unconscious. His fluidity was mesmerizing, a blend of power and control that left everyone momentarily stunned.

Yoongi shook off his disbelief first, muttering under his breath, "Is there anything he can't do?" He stepped forward, ready to lend a hand.

Namjoon wasn't far behind, his protective instincts kicking in. He threw a punch at one of the attackers, his movements efficient and calculated. "Stay close to each other," he said, his tone commanding.

Taehyung, though less skilled, didn't hesitate. His determination outweighed his fear as he dodged attacks and landed quick blows. He wasn't a fighter, but his resolve was unshakable.

Yuri watched from the sidelines, her expression darkening with every man that fell. Her plan was unraveling before her eyes, and she could feel control slipping away. Finally, her frustration boiled over. She reached into her coat and pulled out a sleek black pistol.

"Enough!" she screamed, aiming the weapon at Jungkook.

"Yuri, don't!" Taehyung yelled, stepping forward.

Before she could pull the trigger, Jungkook moved like lightning. In one swift motion, he closed the gap between them and struck her wrist, causing the gun to fall to the ground with a loud clatter. He kicked it out of reach, his eyes burning with resolve.

"You're not going to hurt anyone," Jungkook said, his voice cold and commanding.

Yuri staggered back, her mask of confidence shattered. "You think this is over?" she hissed, her voice trembling with rage. "You've won nothing!"

Just then, the sound of approaching sirens pierced the air. Taehyung had sent a quick message to the police before the fight began, and now their backup had arrived. Police cars screeched to a halt, officers pouring out with weapons drawn.

"Hands in the air! Now!" an officer barked.

Yuri's men froze, their fight drained as they realized they were outnumbered. Even Yuri, despite her defiance, raised her hands as officers surrounded her.

As the situation de-escalated, Taehyung turned to Jungkook, his eyes wide with amazement. "Where did you learn to fight like that?" he asked, his voice full of admiration.

Jungkook shrugged, brushing off his jacket. "A few years of practice," he said casually, though the small smile on his face gave him away.

Yoongi let out a low whistle, shaking his head. "You're full of surprises! Remind me never to get on your bad side."

Namjoon stepped forward, placing a hand on Jungkook's shoulder. "You protected us tonight. Thank you."

Jungkook's eyes softened as he looked at Taehyung. "I'd do it again. Always."

As the officers loaded Yuri into a patrol car, she glared at Taehyung one last time. "This isn't over," she spat.

Taehyung met her gaze, his voice firm and final. "Yes, it is."

The car door slammed shut, and the police drove away, taking Yuri and her reign of terror with them.

—

The air inside the car was thick with tension as Yoongi pressed his phone to his ear, his other hand gripping the steering wheel tightly. His mind raced, replaying every detail of the confrontation they'd just escaped. He could feel the weight of what needed to be done pressing down on him.

The line rang twice before Jimin's familiar voice answered. "Hyung? What's wrong?" Concern was evident, even in those few words.

Yoongi exhaled heavily, trying to keep his voice steady. "Jimin-ah, I need you and Hobi to come to the Kim mansion. Now."

There was a pause on the other end. "What happened? Is everything okay?" Jimin's voice was edged with panic.

Yoongi's eyes flicked to the rearview mirror, catching a glimpse of Taehyung and Jungkook sitting silently in the backseat. Taehyung leaned against Jungkook, their hands clasped together like an anchor in the storm. The exhaustion etched on their faces mirrored his own.

"Till now, yes" Yoongi replied, his voice low. "But it's... complicated. I can't explain over the phone. Just come, please."

Jimin didn't need further convincing. "We're on our way."

Yoongi ended the call, gripping the steering wheel as they sped through the quiet streets toward the Kim mansion. The glow of the city lights outside felt surreal, a stark contrast to the chaos swirling within.

—

At the mansion, Jin had just finished tucking Aera into bed. The little girl's peaceful breathing brought him a fleeting moment of comfort amidst the unease gnawing at him. The news of the hacking incident had been all over the media, and the reports only deepened his anxiety. He knew there was more to the story than what the news could tell, and his instincts told him it involved his family.

The sound of the main door opening snapped him out of his thoughts. He hurried to the foyer, where Namjoon, Yoongi, Taehyung, and Jungkook stood. Their faces were pale, their exhaustion impossible to miss. Jin's heart sank as he took in their weary expressions.

"Welcome back," Jin greeted, his voice calm but tinged with concern. "Sana, bring some water for them," he called out, his eyes never leaving his son's face.

Jungkook's gaze darted toward the stairs. Jin, ever the observant parent, offered a soft reassurance. "Aera's asleep, Koo. She's fine."

Jungkook nodded gratefully, a small smile tugging at his lips despite the tension. Taehyung gave a slight nod, his hand squeezing Jungkook's in silent acknowledgment.

The group moved to the living room, sinking into the plush couches. Jin followed, his expression unreadable but his worry evident. He could feel the weight of whatever they were about to reveal, and it made his chest tighten.

As they sat down in the living room, Jin's gaze shifted between them. The silence stretched on for a few moments before Jimin and Hobi arrived, their concern etched on their faces the moment they entered the room.

Hobi was the first to speak. "Tae, what was all that hacking and everything? What's going on?" His voice was steady, but there was an edge of worry in it.

Taehyung let out a long, deep sigh. He had hoped to have more time to process everything before talking to Jin, but the time for that had passed. He turned to face his father, his heart heavy with the weight of the truth he was about to lay bare.

"There's a lot to explain, Hyung," Taehyung replied, his voice quiet but resolute. "And also, it's time to tell Eomma about it, just like now Appa knows."

Jimin, standing by the door, stiffened. His expression morphed into one of blankness, his lips pressing together tightly. "About her?" he asked, his voice strained, as though the name alone was enough to stir an unsettling memories.

Taehyung nodded, his eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and resolve. "Yes," he said quietly.

Hobi, still standing, felt his stomach drop at the confirmation. His pulse quickened as Taehyung's words sank in.

"Sit down both of you," Yoongi said softly to Jimin and Hobi, motioning for him to take a seat. His own voice wavered slightly with the weight of everything that had happened. "There is more for you to know... The day was hell."

Taehyung sank into the couch, feeling the exhaustion of the day settle in his bones. He ran a hand through his hair, trying to collect his thoughts as his father sat down beside him.

As Sana brought in the water, Jin's gaze remained fixed on Taehyung.

Hobi and Jimin exchanged concerned looks before quietly taking their seats. The weight of the room pressed down on everyone, thick with tension and worry. Jin's gaze swept over them, his patience wearing thin as the silence dragged on.

"About whom are you talking, Tae?" Jin asked, his tone firm, though concern flickered in his eyes.

Taehyung hesitated, meeting Jin's gaze briefly before lowering his eyes. His hands, still clasped tightly with Jungkook's, trembled slightly. His voice was shaky when he finally answered. "A-about Choi Yuri."

Jin frowned in confusion, leaning forward slightly. "Yuri? What does she have to do with all this, son?"

Namjoon sighed heavily, his hand rubbing his temple. His voice carried a note of guilt and regret as he spoke. "We've been unaware of something we should have known long ago, Jinie. I feel so foolish."

"Please, Appa, don't say that," Taehyung interjected, his voice thick with emotion. "I thought I could handle this. I didn't want to worry you, or... or ruin your friendship with Uncle Choi."

Jin's confusion deepened, his brows knitting together as he struggled to piece everything together. His voice was tinged with frustration when he finally spoke. "I don't understand what you're talking about. Can someone be clear, please?"

Taking a deep breath, Taehyung straightened slightly, his gaze now steady. "Yuri was infatuated with me for the last three years," he said slowly, carefully choosing his words. "And today... we just witnessed the extent of her obsession."

Jin's eyes widened in shock, his mouth falling open slightly. He shook his head as though trying to clear his thoughts. "What?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper, disbelief evident in his words.

"It started three years ago, Eomma," Taehyung said, his voice growing softer. Vulnerability flickered in his eyes as he continued. "It's... a long story."

Jin nodded numbly, his gaze softening as he watched the emotions play out on his son's face. Taehyung glanced at Jungkook, their hands still intertwined. Jungkook gave his hand a reassuring squeeze, silently grounding him.

After a moment, Taehyung stood, his movements deliberate, and walked over to where Jin sat with Namjoon. Lowering himself to the floor, he knelt in front of Jin, gently taking his hand in his own. His voice was calm but tinged with sorrow as he began.

"Eomma, do you remember the day Appa arranged a party for my first project, three years ago?"

Jin nodded again, his mind racing back to that evening. "Yes," he murmured.

"That's when it started," Taehyung said. "Uncle Choi introduced Yuri to our family that night. At first, it was normal for me, just like meeting any other guest at the party. But for her, it wasn't."

He paused, his grip tightening slightly on Jin's hand. "She became infatuated with me from that day on. At first, I thought it was just a harmless crush that would fade over time. I thought if I ignored her, she'd get the hint and move on. But she didn't. She only got worse. It wasn't a crush in the first place, Eomma... it was obsession. At start, it was normal, congratulatory messages or casual questions about work. But soon, it turned into something else. She'd send me long messages about how we were meant to be together, how she was the only one who truly loves me. She even started showing up at my office without notice."

Jin's heart sank as Taehyung continued, his voice now tinged with weariness. "She started stalking me, texting me endlessly, and invading my personal space. Jimin guessed her intentions even before I did, he even threatened her but she never budge" he added, glancing at Jimin. Jimin gave a slight nod, his jaw tightening.

"I couldn't even go out with my friends without her somehow showing up. Yoongi, and Hobi Hyung saw it too. They tried to help, but again she was relentless. It got so bad that I started avoiding certain places just to escape her. For a year, she tormented me mentally like this. And Then, when she went abroad for her studies, I thought I'd finally be free. But I was wrong. She didn't stop, even from another country. She started hacking my devices every time I blocked her, forcing me to change my numbers and phones constantly. One day, Jungkook stepped in and solved that issue. For a while, I was relieved."

Jin's hands trembled slightly in Taehyung's grasp. His heart ached at the thought of his son going through so much without his knowledge.

"When I met Jungkook, everything changed. He made me feel safe. For the first time, I felt like I could breathe again. I fell in love with him because he saw me for who I was, not for my position or my name. And when we got married, I thought Yuri would finally give up. But When she returned...."

After a brief pause, Taehyung continued, "She managed to hide her true nature from all of you. She acted sweet and polite in front of you, but in front of me and sometimes Jungkook her true self came out. Our marriage had escalated her more, so she tried to drive a wedge between us, but she failed.... Everytime!"

Taehyung glanced at Jungkook, gratitude shining in his eyes. Jungkook gave him a small, encouraging smile. Taking a deep breath, Taehyung pressed on.

"The day before yesterday, Jungkook and I went to the grocery store. That's when we realized she was stalking us again. I confronted her in anger, and she blamed Jungkook for me not loving her back. She even tried to harm him. I.... I lost my temper and pushed her away."

Remembering past three years, tears welled up in Taehyung's eyes as he finished. "I think she felt humiliated because of that, and she retaliated by hiring Jiwan to hack our systems and create chaos. But my Jungkookie saved us again... he saved me, our company, everything. He's brilliant, Eomma. I'm so proud of him... so blessed to have him."

Jin's expression softened, his heart breaking at the vulnerability in his son's voice. Slowly, he reached out and pulled Taehyung into a tight embrace, holding him as though trying to shield him from all the pain he had endured.

Jin's arms tightened around Taehyung as he held him close, his own tears threatening to spill. He could feel the weight of the years of pain his son had carried in silence, and it broke his heart. Taehyung, usually so strong and composed, now clung to him like a child seeking comfort, his body trembling against his Eomma's chest.

"I'm so sorry, my son," Jin murmured, his voice choked with emotion. He pressed a gentle kiss to Taehyung's hair, his hand rubbing soothing circles on his back. "I should have known... I should have seen the signs. I failed you."

"No, Eomma," Taehyung whispered, his voice muffled against Jin's shoulder. "You didn't fail me. I... I didn't want to burden you. I thought I could handle it."

Jin pulled back slightly, cupping Taehyung's face in his hands. His gaze was filled with a mixture of love, sorrow, and fierce determination. "You are never a burden, Tae. Never. You are my son, my precious son. No matter how grown you are, no matter how strong you've become, you'll always be my baby. And it's my job to protect you."

The tears that Taehyung had been holding back spilled over, and Jin wiped them away with tender fingers. "You should have come to me, Tae. I would have done everything in my power to stop her. But now that I know, I won't let her hurt you anymore. Do you hear me?"

Taehyung nodded weakly, his throat too tight to respond. Jungkook moved closer, placing a gentle hand on Taehyung's shoulder. Jin's gaze shifted to Jungkook, and his expression softened.

"And you," Jin said, his voice trembling. "Thank you, Jungkook. Thank you for standing by my son, for loving him and protecting him when I couldn't. I don't know how I can ever repay you."

Jungkook shook his head, his own emotions threatening to overwhelm him. "You don't have to repay me, Eomma. I love him. I always will. And I'll protect him with everything I have."

Jin smiled through his tears, reaching out to take Jungkook's hand in his. "You're a blessing to this family, Jungkookie. You're my son too, and I'll protect you just the same."

Namjoon, who had been silent until now, stepped forward and placed a hand on Jin's shoulder. His eyes were glistening with unshed tears as he looked at their sons. "We'll face this together, as a family. No more hiding, no more fear. Yuri won't win. We'll make sure of it."

Taehyung looked up at his parents, his heart swelling with a mix of relief and gratitude. His family was by his side, and their love was a shield against the darkness that had haunted him.

Jin placed a gentle kiss on Taehyung's forehead before pulling him into another embrace. "You're so brave, my Tae," he whispered. "Brave and strong. But you don't have to carry this burden alone anymore. Let us share it with you."

The tension in the room slowly began to dissipate after Jin's comforting words and the family's collective resolve to face the situation together.

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ᴛ ᴀ ᴇ ᴋ ᴏ ᴏ ᴋ

Preview ~

To be continued...