Chapter 39

I'M REALLY VERY SORRY! YOU ALL CAN SCOLD ME... 🥺

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Author's Point of View

The morning sun peeked over the horizon, painting the sky with soft hues of orange and pink. Inside the house, however, the atmosphere was far from calm.

The living room was filled with confusion. Namjoon stood at the center, his eyebrows furrowed deeply as he held a letter in his hand and read it again for everyone present.

Taehyung sat on the couch, rubbing his temples, while Jungkook sat beside him, equally confused. Hobi, standing near the dining area, crossed his arms. Yoongi leaned against the wall, looking utterly unamused. And Grandma sat in her chair, watching the younger ones with a knowing look, as if she had expected something like this to happen.

Namjoon placed the paper on the tea table, its contents clear and straightforward, yet frustrating.

"Good Morning Joonie and Everyone... I know you all are confused and worried, but please don’t be. Jiminie, Jack, and I are going back to Seoul. I know we were supposed to leave together in a few hours, but trust me! I have my reasons. I will explain everything once you all reach Seoul. For now, just freshen up, have breakfast, and get ready. We will be waiting for you. Come soon! Bye!"

Jin’s neat handwriting was there, as confident as always, yet it did little to calm Namjoon’s growing frustration.

The first thing Namjoon did was grab his phone and dial Jin’s number. His fingers moved swiftly, but the moment he pressed call, his heart sank.

“Switched off,” he muttered under his breath, rubbing his forehead.

Taehyung and Yoongi leaned in, watching as Namjoon tried again, but the result was the same.

Just as frustration was about to bubble over, Namjoon noticed something on his phone—a message.

"I reached Seoul."

Jin had sent it earlier, probably right when they had arrived.

Namjoon let out a deep sigh and looked around at the others.

“So, what do we do now?” Hobi asked, arms still crossed.

Namjoon exhaled, pinching the bridge of his nose. “We should leave as soon as possible.”

Taehyung nodded in agreement. “There’s no point wasting time here if they’re already there.”

Yoongi straightened up. “Then let’s pack up.”

—

After a quick breakfast and some final preparations, everyone retreated to their rooms to pack. Jungkook packed Grandma's cloths and medicines with the help of staff.

The house, which had been warm and full of laughter for the past few days, now felt strangely empty. Even though they would be back again in the future, the thought of leaving still held a bittersweet weight.

By noon, the luggage was ready. Everyone gathered outside as their luxurious bus pulled up. The driver helped load the bags as the group prepared to leave.

As they boarded the bus, Namjoon took one last look at the house “Kim Seokjin… you never change,” he murmured, unable to fight back a fond smile.

Taehyung, standing behind him, let out a small sigh. “I just hope they didn’t do anything crazy.”

Jungkook, standing next to him, chuckled. “With Jimin hyung involved? That’s unlikely.”

Yoongi smirked. “Whatever it is, I just hope it doesn’t give me a headache.”

Grandma patted Namjoon’s shoulder as she walked past him to enter the bus. “Hurry up, gentlemen. We don’t want to keep them waiting.”

—

The sun had almost set when their luxurious bus finally entered Seoul. The chilly evening breeze seeped through the vehicle’s slightly open windows, carrying the distant scent of flowers and freshly fallen leaves. Aera, sitting comfortably in Namjoon’s lap, let out a soft yawn, her tiny arms stretching above her head as she rubbed her sleepy eyes.

When they neared the Kim mansion, a frown formed on Taehyung’s face as the bus came to an unexpected stop right outside the gate instead of going in. He exchanged a glance with Namjoon and Yoongi before standing up to check what had happened.

Stepping off the bus, his eyes widened in pure shock. The sight before him took his breath away.

The entire entrance of the mansion was glowing with countless warm golden lights, wrapping around every tree and bush like stars had descended upon the earth. The grand pathway leading to the main door was adorned with vibrant flower arrangements, creating a soft, fragrant carpet. But what caught his attention the most was a massive board standing proudly in front of the gate.

'Welcome'

The word was beautifully written in delicate floral accents, blending seamlessly with the garden’s natural beauty.

Taehyung stood still, absorbing the scene, before a small smile formed on his lips. His heart, often guarded and unreadable, softened at the sight.

Behind him, one by one, everyone alighted from the bus.

“Wow” Aera gasped in awe, her big round eyes twinkling with excitement. She clutched Namjoon’s collar, pointing at the glowing mansion, her tiny mouth forming an ‘O’ shape.

“It’s incredible,” Hobi murmured, his voice laced with amazement. While Grandma has a wide green on her face.

Taehyung’s gaze shifted to Jungkook, whose expression was unreadable at first. But as he observed the younger closely, he noticed the way his doe-like eyes shimmered under the golden glow. The lights reflected in them like tiny fireflies, making his wonder-filled gaze even more enchanting.

“You like it, Bun?” Taehyung’s voice was gentle, careful not to startle his husband.

Jungkook blinked a few times before turning his head toward Taehyung. His lips parted slightly, but no words came out immediately. His gaze drifted back to the sight before him as he finally whispered, “It’s beautiful, Hyung.”

Taehyung hummed in response, watching as Jungkook’s fingers twitched, his emotions barely held together.

He knew.

He knew what this meant for Jungkook.

For someone who had spent years surviving rather than living, who had given up on dreams and desires for the sake of his daughter, this simple yet grand gesture was overwhelming. The welcome, the warmth—it was everything Jungkook had never dared to wish for but perhaps secretly craved.

Jungkook bit his lip, willing himself to stay composed, but Taehyung saw the way his hands subtly clenched at his sides. The younger was fighting the emotions threatening to overflow.

Taehyung’s hand reached out, palm open in front of Jungkook. “Let’s go inside.”

Jungkook hesitated for only a moment before slipping his hand into Taehyung’s. His fingers were slightly cold, a sign of nervousness, but his grip was firm. Together, they took slow steps toward the mansion.

On their way, Jungkook brushed his fingers against the flowers forming the welcome sign, feeling their soft petals against his skin. He inhaled deeply, letting their delicate fragrance calm his racing heart.

When they reached the main door, Taehyung rang the bell. The air was thick with anticipation. Everyone stood close together, waiting.

A minute passed. Then another.

Silence.

The door creaked open slightly. But instead of a welcoming figure, they were met with pitch darkness.

The lights inside were completely off.

Taehyung furrowed his brows. “Eomma” he called, stepping cautiously inside. The others followed, their confusion growing.

Then—

POP!

The entire room exploded in light, and loud voices rang through the air—

“WELCOME MR. KIM JUNGKOOK AND MISS KIM AERA!”

Jin, Jimin, and Jack emerged from their hiding spots, wide grins on their faces.

Jungkook’s breath hitched. His chest tightened, and before he knew it, his vision blurred.

His feet moved on their own, carrying him straight into Jin’s arms.

Jin stiffened for a second before his eyes softened in realization. The younger was trembling, his body pressed firmly against Jin’s as he clung to him like a lost child.

Jin’s heart swelled with affection.

He wrapped his arms around Jungkook, holding him close, his hand rubbing slow, soothing circles on the younger’s back.

The room was silent except for Jungkook’s barely audible sniffles.

Aera, who had been in Namjoon’s arms, tugged at his sleeve. “Mumma is crying,” she said in a small, concerned voice.

Taehyung, standing nearby, scooped Aera into his arms from his father. “Mumma is not crying because he’s sad, Princess. He’s happy.” His voice was gentle, reassuring.

Aera’s gaze shifted toward Jungkook and Jin. When Jungkook pulled away slightly, wiping his tears, he met Aera’s big, curious eyes. He gave her a soft, watery smile and nodded, confirming Taehyung’s words.

Jin pinched Jungkook’s cheek lightly. “Tears aren’t your thing, baby. And welcome to your new home.”

Jungkook let out a shaky breath, nodding as he whispered, “Thank you, Eomma. Thank you for—everything.”

Jimin and Jack stepped forward, crossing their arms playfully. “No need to thank us, Mrs. Kim.”

Jungkook’s mouth fell open in shock.

His cheeks turned an adorable shade of pink as he stammered, “Wha—Mrs.—”

Taehyung smirked at his husband’s flustered state.

Jin chuckled. “We wanted to surprise you, and I wanted to make sure my two babies got the welcome they deserved.”

The night was filled with laughter, good food, and endless chatter. Except Grandma, who had to sleep because of medication, everyone played games, danced, and after a long time in a long time, Jungkook felt like he truly belonged.

—

The mansion was quiet, wrapped in the peaceful stillness of the night. Everyone had long gone to bed, lost in their dreams after an evening filled with laughter, warmth, and celebration. But sleep did not come to Taehyung.

He wandered the dimly lit corridors, his hands tucked into the pockets. His steps were slow, thoughtful, as if the weight of his thoughts was holding him down. The cold floor beneath his bare feet did little to ground him—his mind was elsewhere, tangled in worries about his grandmother’s health.

She had always been a pillar of strength, a source of warmth and wisdom. Seeing her weakened, knowing there was little he could do, left a hollow ache in his chest. He had spent years mastering the art of composure, of keeping his emotions locked away behind an unreadable gaze. But tonight, alone in the quiet of his home, he felt the cracks forming.

Lost in thought, he didn’t notice the soft creak of a door opening behind him.

—

Jungkook stirred from his sleep feeling thirsty, only to find the space beside him and Aera empty. His brows furrowed, sleep still clinging to him as he blinked at the vacant spot. He sat up, his eyes adjusting to the faint light filtering through the curtains.

The room was silent except for Aera’s soft, rhythmic breathing beside him. His lips pressed together in thought. If Taehyung wasn’t here, then where—?

A quiet concern settled in his chest. He pushed off the blanket, slipped out of bed carefully so as not to wake their daughter, and padded toward the door.

Stepping into the hallway, Jungkook’s eyes quickly found the lone figure standing in the dim corridor. He paused for a moment, watching. The elder’s broad shoulders seemed weighed down by something invisible. The moonlight cast shadows on his face, outlining the sharp angles softened only by the quiet vulnerability in his gaze.

Jungkook took a step forward. “Hyung.”

Taehyung flinched ever so slightly at the sudden touch on his shoulder, turning around swiftly. The sight before him made his tense expression falter.

Jungkook stood there, his hair adorably messy from sleep, eyes heavy with drowsiness yet filled with concern. He looked so small in his oversized pajama shirt, but his presence—his warmth—felt immense.

“Have I disturbed your sleep, Bun?” Taehyung’s voice was gentle as he reached up, his fingers brushing against Jungkook’s cheek in a soft caress.

Jungkook shook his head, blinking slowly. “No, I woke up thirsty. But when I noticed you weren’t in bed, I got worried and came to find you.” He tilted his head slightly, his lips quirking up in a small teasing smile. “Didn’t think I’d find you taking a midnight stroll through the hallway, though.”

Taehyung let out a soft chuckle, his hand falling back to his side. “Just couldn’t sleep, baby.”

Jungkook’s teasing expression faded as he studied Taehyung’s face. “And you were thinking about Halmeoni, weren’t you?” His voice was quiet but firm, as though he already knew the answer.

Taehyung exhaled slowly, lowering his gaze. A barely-there nod was his only response.

Jungkook took a step closer, their bodies almost touching. “I know you’re worried, Hyung. I am too,” he admitted softly. “But tell me, if Halmeoni saw you like this, would it make her feel better? Would it give her strength?”

Taehyung lifted his gaze, looking into Jungkook’s eyes, and slowly shook his head.

Jungkook smiled sadly. “Exactly. If she knows you’re worried, she’ll worry about you too. And we don’t want that, do we?” He reached out, intertwining his fingers with Taehyung’s. “She needs us to believe in her, to keep her happy. That’s how she’ll get stronger.”

A quiet sigh left Taehyung’s lips. He knew Jungkook was right. His fingers tightened around the younger’s hand, drawing comfort from his presence.

“We’ll get the best doctors. We’ll do everything we can,” Jungkook continued, his voice holding a quiet conviction. “Halmeoni will be okay, Hyung. She has all of us— and she has you.”

The warmth of Jungkook’s words melted something inside Taehyung. He felt the weight on his shoulders lessen, even if just a little. Without another word, he pulled Jungkook into a hug, burying his face in the crook of the younger’s neck. Jungkook sighed against him, wrapping his arms around Taehyung’s waist and holding him just as tightly.

“You always know what to say,” Taehyung murmured, his breath warm against Jungkook’s skin.

Jungkook chuckled lightly, stroking his back. “I just know you, that’s all.”

For a moment, they stayed like that—wrapped in each other’s warmth, their silent fears and unspoken promises lingering in the air.

After a while, Jungkook shifted slightly. “Hyungie, you have a lot to do tomorrow. You need to rest.”

Before Jungkook could protest, Taehyung suddenly bent down and swept him into his arms, lifting him in a bridal carry.

“Hyung!” Jungkook yelped, his eyes going wide. His hands instinctively clutched at Taehyung’s shoulders as his cheeks flushed a deep pink. “Put me down!”

Taehyung only smirked, tightening his hold. “Nope.”

Jungkook huffed, trying—and failing—to glare at him. His blush deepened when Taehyung leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to his forehead.

“Thank you, baby. And I love you.” Taehyung whispered, his voice filled with so much warmth that Jungkook felt his heart stumble.

Jungkook swallowed, his lips curling into a small, shy smile. “I love you too, Hyung.” His voice was barely above a whisper.

Still carrying him, Taehyung walked back into their room and gently placed Jungkook on the bed beside Aera. The younger immediately curled up under the blanket, cheeks still tinged pink.

Taehyung smiled, reaching out to smooth down Aera’s hair before leaning over to kiss her forehead. He then turned to Jungkook, pressing another soft kiss to his temple.

“Good night, my bunnies,” he murmured, his voice filled with affection.

Jungkook peeked up at him with a small pout. “I’m not a bunny.”

Taehyung raised a brow, amused. “Oh? What are you then?”

Jungkook hesitated for a second before muttering under his breath, “A tiger’s husband.”

Taehyung chuckled at that, his chest vibrating with quiet laughter. Unable to resist, he leaned down and placed a teasing peck on Jungkook’s slightly pouting lips before pulling away with a wink.

Jungkook’s eyes widened, his face heating up as he quickly yanked the blanket over his head. “I’m sleepy! Good night!” He mumbled from beneath the covers.

Taehyung shook his head in amusement, his heart feeling lighter than before.

“Good night, baby,” he whispered, finally slipping under the covers beside them.

And for the first time that night, sleep came easily.

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Preview ~

To be continued