Chapter 40

Hello, 💌🌼

After so long, right? I know it's been a while, and I'm truly sorry for keeping you waiting. But I needed this time.... time to gather myself, to heal, to process everything life has thrown my way. It hasn't been easy, but I'm finally in a place where I feel grounded, at peace. And now, here I am, ready to pick up where I left off and give my all to finish this story.... very soon. Thank you for your patience.... it means everything.

May things will look rushed in this chapter but from here the main plot will start!

Let's start ~

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Author's Point of View

Afternoon | At Hospital

"These are the reports I mentioned earlier, Dr. Lee," Taehyung said, gesturing toward Jack, who was holding a file. Jack stepped forward and handed the folder to Taehyung, who in turn passed it to Dr. Lee.

Dr. Lee Minjun, one of South Korea's most esteemed physicians and the Kim family doctor, examined the reports carefully. In his forties, the doctor was renowned for his expertise and dedication. For his grandmother's ongoing care, Taehyung and Jack had made the trip to South Korea's largest hospital.

"These reports will certainly help us proceed with Mr. Kim's treatment," Dr. Lee assured, glancing up at Taehyung, who acknowledged with a slight nod.

"Mrs. Kim can return home for now," Dr. Minjun continued. "We'll begin the treatment tomorrow once all the test results are in."

Earlier that day, Taehyung and Jack had driven Grandma to the hospital at Dr. Lee's request to complete the necessary tests. Namjoon, meanwhile, had gone to work to manage the office in Taehyung's absence, easing the burden on his son. He knew Taehyung would prioritize his Grandma's health, so he decided to take care of business matters for the time being.

Everyone else had resumed their routines as well. Jungkook, focusing on family, decided to take a short break from the café. Hobi returned to his café, Jimin went back to his home, Yoongi was immersed in office work, and Aera attended her kindergarten as usual.

At home, Jungkook and Jin prepared lunch, waiting for Namjoon, Taehyung, Jack, and Grandma to return. Once everyone was back, they shared a hearty lunch together.

Later, Namjoon, Taehyung, and Jack returned to the company to finish pending work. Taehyung earned a light scolding from Jin for overworking, but Jungkook, ever the protective spouse, intervened and shielded him from Eomma Jin's lecture.

The rest of the day passed uneventfully.

Next Morning | Taekook's Bedroom

Taehyung stirred awake, his eyes fluttering open to find a small, warm weight on his chest. A soft smile spread across his face as he saw his little princess, Aera, fast asleep with a cute pout, her tiny legs resting on either side of his stomach.

He gently patted her head before turning his gaze to the other side of the bed, where Jungkook lay sleeping. The sight warmed Taehyung's heart. His husband's baby-like face, delicate lips, and button nose were hidden behind silky strands of hair.

Baby Bunny!

Unable to resist, Taehyung carefully brushed the hair away from Jungkook's face, his touch light and tender. The gentle caress caused Jungkook to stir slightly, and Taehyung quickly pulled his hand back.

Jungkook slowly opened his eyes, meeting Taehyung's fond gaze.

"Sorry for waking you, baby," Taehyung murmured softly.

Jungkook smiled sleepily. "You didn't, Hyung," he assured, sitting up and stretching. "Good morning."

"Good morning," Taehyung replied, his voice warm and loving.

As Jungkook got up to head to the bathroom, Taehyung grabbed his wrist gently. "Wait."

Jungkook turned, puzzled by the sudden stop. "What's wrong, Hyung?"

Taehyung sat up, lowering his gaze momentarily. "I—I'm sorry, bun. For everything."

Jungkook frowned, sitting back on the bed. "What do you mean, everything?"

Taehyung sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Everything happened so fast. I didn't give you the wedding you deserved — I mean everything happened so suddenly, and now, even after marriage, I'm not giving you enough time. I love you, Bun, so much, but—" He paused, his voice breaking slightly.

Jungkook gently pressed his hand against Taehyung's mouth, silencing him.

"Hyung, stop overthinking," he said softly. "First, our wedding was perfect because it was with you. Second, you coming home to me every night is more than enough. And lastly, Halmeoni's health is our priority right now. I don't need anything else except you taking care of yourself and her."

Taehyung's eyes glistened with gratitude as Jungkook removed his hand. Carefully, Taehyung shifted Aera to the side, placing a gentle kiss on her temple before pulling Jungkook onto his lap.

Jungkook blushed deeply, hiding his face in Taehyung's neck. "Hyung"

"I'm the luckiest man to have you," Taehyung whispered, holding Jungkook close.

"Wrong," Jungkook mumbled shyly. "It's me."

Taehyung chuckled, his smile growing. "Bun, where's my morning kiss?"

Jungkook flushed even deeper, tightening his hold around Taehyung. Slowly, he raised his head and planted a shy kiss on Taehyung's cheek.

"Not there, love," Taehyung teased, leaning in closer. "Let me get it myself."

Just as their lips were about to meet, Jungkook bolted off Taehyung's lap, rushing toward the bathroom. He glanced back with a playful smile. "Morning breath, Hyung!"

Taehyung laughed, calling after him. "That excuse won't work from tomorrow, baby!"

Jungkook blushed as he shut the bathroom door, the sound of Taehyung's laughter echoing behind him.

In the bedroom, Taehyung lay back with Aera cuddled against him, a soft smile lingering on his lips as he admired his sleeping daughter.

One Month Later

A month had passed, and thankfully, after a series of tense days, everything turned out well. Grandma's surgery was successful, which was a relief for everyone. However, as Doctor Lee had mentioned earlier, her body had become frail. He recommended that she remain in the hospital for another month before returning home for further treatment.

During this period, everyone ensured Grandma was well cared for, spending quality time with her in shifts, whether it was two, three, or even four of them at a time. From ensuring she took her medicines on schedule to trimming her nails when needed, nothing was overlooked. Despite her occasional tantrums, Jungkook, Jimin, or Jin always managed to feed her their homemade nutritious meals on time.

Taehyung had resumed work, grateful for the continued support of his Appa, who had been helping him even after his return. The backlog of work was overwhelming, with numerous contracts signed during his absence. Although Taehyung tried to decline some, the clients preferred to wait rather than entrust their projects to someone else. He felt fortunate for their trust, but it was undeniably exhausting.

His Appa's reassuring presence gave him the comfort and confidence he needed to handle everything, allowing him to focus on his responsibilities.

Taehyung's married life was like rain in the desert... refreshing and revitalizing. His husband, Jungkook, was a gem in a coal mine, a constant source of peace and stability. At the end of each exhausting day, Jungkook was there for him with warm smiles and soothing words, providing the emotional sanctuary Taehyung craved.

The vows Jungkook had made "To have and to hold, for better or worse, in sickness and in health." were not just words. He lived by them, supporting Taehyung through every tough moment. Jungkook wasn't just Taehyung's strength but a pillar of emotional support for the entire family.

If asked about the past month, Jungkook would describe it as a journey of growth and learning. He witnessed the true essence of family—his family. He saw his Eomma as the backbone of everyone's strength, his Appa as an unshakable pillar, his Hyungs as incredible role models, and his husband as the epitome of kindness, perseverance, and empathy. Taehyung's ability to navigate life's challenges with grace and determination left Jungkook inspired and in awe.

A Typical Morning at the Kim Mansion

"Eomma, Jimin Hyung said he'll come straight from the hospital. Hobi Hyung has some work, so he's heading back," Jungkook explained while packing Aera's lunchbox.

"Alright, I'll leave once he gets here," Jin replied, helping Aera get dressed for kindergarten.

"I thought the same, but Halmeoni has forbidden anyone from visiting her before the evening," Jungkook added, pouting slightly.

Jin chuckled at Jungkook's adorable expression. "Don't worry, we won't leave her alone once she's home," he reassured.

"Exactly, we won't," Jungkook said determinedly.

Once Aera was ready, she gave Jin a quick peck on the cheek, did the same for Jungkook, and then dashed toward the stairs. Namjoon, freshly ready for work, intercepted her, scooping her up and spinning her around.

"Grandpa!" Aera squealed in delight.

At the same time, Taehyung descended the stairs, his face lighting up as he spotted his daughter giving Namjoon a kiss on the cheek. Aera, noticing her Dada, stretched her arms out toward him with a wide grin.

Taehyung took her from Namjoon, kissing her cheek, which she eagerly reciprocated. "Ready for kindergarten, Princess?" he asked cheerfully. She nodded enthusiastically, hugging her Dada tightly.

After bidding Jin goodbye, Taehyung walked over to Jungkook. "See you, Bun," he said softly, placing a gentle kiss on Jungkook's forehead. Jungkook blushed, nervously glancing at the older couple. Relaxing when he saw them engrossed in their conversation, he sighed in relief.

Shaking his head fondly at his shy husband, Taehyung carried Aera out, reminding Namjoon that he would be waiting for him outside.

A few minutes later, Namjoon joined Taehyung, and the two headed to work after dropping Aera off at kindergarten.

Afternoon | Kim's Mansion

The persistent sound of the doorbell echoed through the Kim mansion, grating on Jimin's nerves.

He had just arrived and was eagerly waiting for the Kimchi-jjigae that Jungkook was preparing for him. Jin had stepped out for groceries with Sana, leaving Jimin alone in the living room, engrossed in a drama playing on the TV. The sudden and incessant doorbell ringing shattered his peace, leaving him visibly irritated.

Jungkook, meanwhile, had just finished plating the dish and was placing it on the dining table when he also heard the doorbell's relentless chime. Still wearing his apron, he made his way to the living room, only to find Jimin stomping his foot in frustration as he headed toward the door.

With an irritated scowl, Jimin yanked the door open and began, "Are you insan—" but his words froze mid-sentence. His eyes widened in shock as he stared at the unexpected visitor on the doorstep.

Jungkook, standing near the sofa, noticed Jimin's abrupt change in demeanor and the incomplete sentence. Frowning in confusion, he moved closer to get a look at who had caused such a reaction. The person at the door was unfamiliar to Jungkook, which deepened his confusion.

"You! What are you doing here? Where is Uncle Jin? Don't you have your own house? Why are you always hanging around here?" A young woman in her early twenties stood at the door, dressed in a short dress, high heels, and heavy makeup, her luggage trolley by her side. The venom in her voice and the glare she directed at Jimin made her disdain unmistakable.

Jungkook's confusion only grew. Who is she? And why she is talking with Jimin Hyung like that? he wondered, observing the tense interaction.

"Shut the hell up! I should be the one asking why you're here!?" Jimin snapped, his voice laced with anger as his patience finally snapped.

Jungkook hesitated, unsure whether to intervene or remain silent. He decided to approach Jimin, hoping to understand the situation better.

The girl sneered at Jimin dismissively. "Move aside. You don't need to know anything," she said coldly, pushing past him into the house.

Once inside, her eyes scanned the living room as if searching for someone. When her gaze landed on Jungkook, who was standing beside Jimin, she looked him up and down with disdain.

"Hey, are you the maid? Go call your si—" she began but was swiftly cut off by Jimin, who placed a firm hand on Jungkook's shoulder and smirked at the girl.

"Meet Kim Jungkook, husband of my best friend Kim Taehyung, Miss Choi," Jimin announced loudly, his tone dripping with satisfaction.

The color drained from the girl's face as she stammered, "Wha— What did you just say?"

"You heard me right," Jimin said smugly, removing Jungkook's apron and handing it to him. Jungkook considered greeting her politely, but her expression of barely concealed anger gave him pause.

Before anyone could say more, the sound of approaching footsteps drew everyone's attention. Jin entered the room, carrying grocery bags, his warm smile lighting up his face as he spotted Jungkook.

Jungkook returned the smile, but Jimin's expression remained unreadable. The girl, however, didn't take her eyes off Jungkook, her emotions flickering between disbelief and perhaps frustration.

Jin's face lit up as he recognized the visitor. "Oh my, Yuri! When did you get back dear" he asked warmly, setting down the bags.

"Uncle," Yuri greeted him with a pout, masking her emotions with a practiced smile. "I just landed. I wanted to surprise Taehyung, so I didn't call anyone."

"That's wonderful! Come, have a seat," Jin said, his voice full of affection as he welcomed her. Yuri followed him, dragging her luggage, and they settled onto the couch.

"Actually, Uncle, I found out my dad's still in the U.S. and won't be back for a week. So I wanted to ask if— Can I stay here until he returns?" Yuri asked sweetly, her tone almost pleading.

"Of course, dear. Let me ask someone to prepare the guest room for you," Jin said, calling out to Sana to get the room ready.

—

"Kookie, can I take Aera out today? And could you pack my Kimchi-jjigae?" Jimin asked, leaning against the counter.

"Of course, Hyung, but why pack it? Can't you eat here?" Jungkook asked, confused.

"I was planning to, but not anymore. I can't stand her presence," Jimin admitted with a sigh. "Don't overthink what I said ok. Also, I need to leave soon to pick up Angel, so it's just practical to take the food with me."

Jungkook nodded but couldn't help asking, "Who is she, Hyung? Why does she talk to you like that?"

"Her name is Choi Yuri," Jimin began. "She's the one Taehyung told you about before. You remember, right? You've only heard parts of the story, but now that she's here, I'm sure you'll learn everything soon. For now, Eomma will introduce you I'm sure!."

Jungkook nodded in understanding and handed Jimin Aera's clothes, as requested. After informing Jin of his plans, Jimin left quickly, taking the packed food with him.

—

Back in the Living Room

Jungkook returned to the living room, where Jin warmly called him over.

"Yuri, meet my beloved son-in-law, Jungkook— Taehyung's husband," Jin introduced proudly. Turning to Jungkook, he continued, "And Kookie, this is Yuri, the daughter of a close friend of Namjoon's. She's staying with us for a few days."

Jungkook smiled politely. "Hello, nice to meet you, Miss Yuri."

Yuri forced a smile, her true emotions expertly concealed. "Same here, Jungkook-shi," she replied.

As Jin and Yuri continued chatting, Jungkook couldn't shake the strange tension lingering in the air.

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Preview ~

To be continued...