Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Stop it already! What do you want from us?! Just leave me and Taehyung alone! Can't you just let me live a quiet life?!"

Jeon Jungkook, dressed in all black, was walking in a quick and angry pace through the dim, wet streets of Daegu. It was the middle of the night, and he was kilometers away from he and his husband's apartment.

He knew it was dangerous to have agreed to meet but no, he needed to end this madness now. He had to cut ties and communication with the person on the other line.

His breathing was ragged and he was pressing his phone tightly against his ear, body tense and eyes darting all around him. He was wary of the possible dangers that could suddenly jump on him while walking through the empty streets, save for the few cars that passed and left quite a gust of wind in their place.

"Oh, you silly. Can't you figure it out yet? I want you, Jungkook. Turn yourself over to me. Marry me. Let's have children together. My men will help us delete any traces left behind and we'll live far away from all of this. And they'll also take care of that Taehyung you speak so highly of."

The voice scoffed in obvious disgust at the mere mention of Taehyung's name.

Stopping abruptly under a streetlight, Jungkook clenched his teeth together and fought to control the anger surging within him.

Thinking about Taehyung, he reminded himself of their marriage, his kisses, and hugs which always provided him comfort. He thought about him lounging back on the couch in their apartment, watching TV and waiting patiently for Jungkook like he promised.

Jungkook looked down at the wedding ring on his finger and smiled weakly. Right. He was doing this for him. For them.

Taking a deep breath, he answered in a harsh whisper and began to cross the street.

"You're crazy! If you think for one second that I'm choosing you over Taehyung then you're wrong. I love my husband more than anything and I swear that if you ever lay harm on even just a single strand of his hair, I'll freaking kill you."

He couldn't bear hearing his husband get talked about like that. They had no right to.

There was a silence on the other line.

A long, eerie silence that had Jungkook's heart suddenly pounding harder than ever before. He suddenly had the urge to look up. And when he did, he wished he hadn't.

There, on the other side of the street on the crosswalk, stood the one he feared the most. The one responsible for all of the craziness he was currently tangled up in.

He got rooted to his spot and his eyes widened, feeling as if he got speared in the middle of the road. His hands began to shake.

The figure was dressed in all black like him, and they held the phone to their ear while grinning widely like a maniac. Their lips opened, and he heard someone speak on the other line.

"You're mine, Jungkook. No one else's. And if I can't have you, then no one else can."

Suddenly, flashing white lights and screeching appeared to his left, but he was too shaken to even move as it charged towards him. His whole figure began to tremble until he got enveloped by the brightness.

"Remember that, Jungkook." The other smiled before ending the call.

Beep. Beep. Beep.

He was covered in white light before his world turned black.

Chapter Text

Taehyung and Jungkook's marriage was going strong.

Sure, they've had many disagreements and arguments here and there, but nothing was never solved once a talk and understanding was set in order. After all, that was the secret to a happy and long lasting marriage.

Many hurdles were thrown in their path, ranging from some of Jungkook's overbearing fans who paid them a visit almost every time they've already moved apartments, to Taehyung's followers who threatened to abduct him, they've gone through it all.

They've already considered filing lawsuits against those people and moving apartments again, but it was too much time and paperwork which they apparently didn't have, what with their busy schedules.

Taehyung was busy with different branded photoshoots and fashion shows which often occurred outside the country, mostly in Europe and America, and Jungkook had tours almost every other month, plus recordings, practices, and collaborations.

Still, despite their busy schedules and intrusive fans, they always made sure that they had time for each other, no matter how little it may be or if they were countries apart.

For five years that kind of routine of theirs had always worked.

Until now.

Jungkook was given a month long rest or sort of hiatus by the entertainment he was under, after a concert in Europe. His manager had requested it from the head of the company, seeing as the idol has been working nonstop for more than a year.

At the same time, Taehyung had done his final photoshoot for the coming fall, and all that was left in his schedule was a limited edition clothing line fashion show happening in winter.

That meant both of them had at least a month to spend with each other, all alone and without any disturbance from their work.

Taehyung was more than excited, finally getting to have his husband all to himself. After all the long time spent far away from each other. He's already planned out what to do, and that was to kiss and cuddle with Jungkook.

His husband on the other hand, not so much.

He seemed to have.........changed.

During their first week of, somehow, vacation, Jungkook has been aloof, jumpy, and unusually quiet. Not to mention distant and fidgety.

It didn't take Taehyung a single second to know that something was wrong.

He'd try to be extra cheerful and more loving towards him, giving surprising hugs and stealing quick kisses every now and then, but he can always see the pained expression that Jungkook would give him behind a smile.

This led Taehyung to start doubting himself, wondering if he did anything wrong.

He admits that he missed a few calls and forgot to send messages every time he'd just pass out, but Jungkook would never get upset over something like that. He wasn't the type to react over something so petty.

So then what could it be?

His career is doing well, and he's happy with being an idol. There weren't even any more fans visiting them as they've hired personal bodyguards and their apartment is crawling with security personnel.

Taehyung was getting worried.

He felt like Jungkook wasn't telling him something. Usually he'd be the one to initiate romantic gestures, backhugs, sweet murmurs and a sweet dance in the middle of their living room. But now he'd stay holed up in their room, on his phone, in a quiet and heated conversation with someone Taehyung doesn't know.

He started to wonder if something happened to him on tour.

Maybe he met someone, but if he did, he'd tell Taehyung. And in no way will he ever get so down like that. What kind of person would influence someone so negatively?

And now Jungkook has again picked up his former hobby. Night walks.

He often did them back when he wasn't that big in the industry yet, right when he and a rookie model Taehyung just started dating.

They were a form of stress reliever for him. It took his mind off of things and helped him think about stuff he needed to think about, and he usually did them around midnight which was actually very dangerous.

Taehyung had been against it as he got already got robbed once. Also, he only went out on his own and refused to take Taehyung with him which upset the male, but he didn't have the courage to tell him that.

He didn't want to deprive him of the one thing that helped him deal with stressful thoughts. But since it was threatening his safety, Taehyung decided he should speak up about it.

Anyway, knowing that Jungkook is doing it again, it confirmed Taehyung's hunch about there being something off.

He wanted to help him. He really did, and he even offered to lend an ear to him in case he ever needed to get something off his chest.

"I'm always here for you, love. Talk to me, please," Taehyung had whispered in their bedroom late one night, hugging him tightly from behind.

It hurt him to know that Jungkook refused, preferring to shoulder his problems on his own instead of sharing them.

"It's nothing, love," he turned around to plant a soft and reassuring kiss on his husband's lips, but Taehyung didn't feel its supposed effect. It just did the opposite.

Cupping his cheeks, he pulled their faces closer so that he can look at Taehyung sincerely in the eyes. He smiled.

"Everything is fine. Don't worry about me, okay? I'm just stressed, that's all," he murmured.

"But you're worrying me," Taehyung complained helplessly. "It's clear that something's wrong and you're not fine at all. Your night walks are proof of that and I just wish you would tell me what's going on. What's wrong, Kook?"

Taehyung could see the sign of helplessness in his eyes. He looked like he wanted to tell him something, but he seemed to be fighting against it.

Leaving the other disappointed, he just shook his head.

"I love you and only you. You know that, right?" Jungkook asked softly, still staring into his eyes.

"Of course I do. I love you, too. So much. But can you please just share with me whatever's bothering you? I can't stand seeing you like this."

Jungkook refused to crumble and just pulled him into his arms a little too tightly, face buried in his chest which just left Taehyung feeling even more perturbed.

"I'm fine, love. Just don't mind me. I'm sorry if I'm making you worry. I know I haven't been too affectionate, either. I just have a lot of things to think about right now."

Those weren't the words Taehyung was hoping for. He remained still and quiet in his arms, not knowing what to say.

Fearing he has offended the other, Jungkook huffed and thought about doing something and making it up to him.

"How about we have some fun tonight?" His voice lightened.

"What do you say, Tae?" He pulled away a little bit to tilt Taehyung's face up by his chin.

Seeing the creases on his forehead, he knew his husband was still worried, obviously not liking how he was making promises to divert his attention of the current matters at hand.

Sighing, Jungkook pecked his cheek and pressed their noses together, closing his eyes.

"Fine. I'll tell you all of it after tomorrow, okay? Now can we please drop this? I just want to apologize to my pretty Taehyungie for getting him worried, hmm?"

He nudged his nose, opening his eyes and conveying words with them. He smiled sweetly, hoping to win his husband's heart over.

Relenting, Taehyung smiled weakly to show him that he agrees.

Jungkook's smile got replaced by a wide grin, wrapping his arms around him. Taehyung did the same and slung his arms around his neck.

"You promise?" He murmured, feeling the need to double check with his husband. Whether it concerned him or not, he needed to know. After all, you'll get crushed if you try to carry your baggage all on your own. You'll always need help from the people around you who will be willing to lend a hand.

Jungkook nodded. "I promise. All of it. Day after tomorrow."

Taehyung released a small sigh of relief, closing his eyes. Hearing those words felt like an anchor was lifted off his shoulders.

Jungkook watched him, eyeing his lovely features. He bit his lip, feeling unsure about telling him.

What if he misunderstands? If he finds out the truth, it could ruin their marriage for sure. He still had ties to the person, and he could make a move on Taehyung once Taehyung knows.

It was risky.

But Taehyung had already caught on. He knew something was wrong. He was very observant, especially when it comes to the welfare of others, and that's only one of the things that Jungkook loves about him.

Closing the gap between them, he stepped forward to capture the other's lips, gently and slowly.

Taehyung sighed into the kiss, loving the sweet taste of his husband coating his lips.

But he didn't forget the offer that had been put up a while ago. When Taehyung parted his lips and Jungkook started stroking the roof of his mouth with his tongue, an innocent kiss ending up turning into a rough make out session, they both knew they couldn't take it any longer.

Taehyung had been waiting for this. It's been too long. He needed him. Now.

Feeling Taehyung's nails digging into his nape, Jungkook pulled away and stared sultrily into his eyes, seeing his own desire and eagerness reflected in them.

"Can we have some fun now?" Taehyung breathlessly asked.

Jungkook smirked, panting as well. "Of course, my love."

He quickly scooped him up in his arms, earning a loud gasp, before throwing him on the bed and climbing on top of him, seizing his lips once again.

Chapter Text

The next day........

Jungkook has been super cuddly and affectionate after their previous night.

If he was distant and remote the other day, he has now seemed to have done a full 180, turning into his old and usual self.

He was more touchy, clingy and bubbly, and Taehyung couldn't have asked for anything else. He loved seeing this side of him, and he wished that the strange Jungkook from the past few days would never come back.

He had cooked them breakfast before Taehyung, who was too tired from their having fun the night before, could wake. He joined Taehyung in the shower, helped him dress, carried him from room to room, and basically just treated him like a queen all day.

There was too much skinship, too, and he'd always place the brunet on his lap if they ever sat down on the couch.

It made Taehyung feel all warm and giddy on the inside, but he knew it was just Jungkook's way of taking his mind off of the promised talk they were supposed to have tomorrow. If these romantic gestures were his tactics, which Taehyung admits that he enjoys, then he was wasting his time. It would take much more than that for Taehyung to forget Jungkook's promise.

He could try all he wants, but it wasn't going to work.

In the evening, Jungkook had excused himself to go and shower while Taehyung was left in the living room, watching his late night show in the couch.

He was still basking in the feeling of being treated like a special person, not even paying attention to the drama he was watching.

Taehyung smiled, replaying the scenes of the past few hours in his head, of how Jungkook took care of him from sunrise to sundown. His sweet kisses, his carrying him from every corner of the penthouse just so he wouldn't get tired, his making breakfast and even cooking dinner and putting away all the dishes. It all felt nice and domestic, just like how it should be.

In the midst of his reminiscing of the events of the day, and dreaming of their future days together, he didn't notice Jungkook come out of their room, all dressed in black and putting his shoes on.

He was biting his lip, nervous about telling Taehyung the thing that he knew he was going to hate. He just hoped he wouldn't react so exaggeratedly.

Walking up to him, he adjusted his beanie before clearing his throat.

"Tae?"

Taehyung was shattered from his daydream, seeing his husband clad in black before him. It was a minute before his smile dropped, getting replaced by a frown. All the good feeling caused by earlier had immediately vanished.

"Are you........going somewhere?" He furrowed his brows.

Jungkook nodded, staring at him.

Remote in hand, Taehyung's eyes flicked to the clock.

11:51.

"Night walk," Jungkook added.

He couldn't help but feel guilty when he saw the other's face fall.

"Jungkook, you know how I feel about your night walks," he said quietly.

Jungkook huffed, sitting down next to him gently and taking his hand in his. "I know."

Taehyung eyed him worryingly before muting the show he was watching. Chewing his bottom lip, he thought carefully while Jungkook played with the ring on his finger and waited to get his permission like a little kid.

Taehyung didn't want him to go. Why would he? The last time Jungkook went out on a night walk, he got robbed. He would've gotten stabbed if he fought for his wallet, but thankfully he didn't. Taehyung had flipped their whole penthouse upside down and screeched his ear off before reporting the incident to the police, and the culprit got arrested the next day. He's spent the thousands of money on Jungkook's wallet, but he didn't use his cards or anything which was good.

He's forbidden him going on night walks since then, but ever since they've worked apart and only got together again recently, he couldn't help saying yes to whatever Jungkook wanted, just to make him happy.

Turning his body to face him, he squeezed his hand back and offered a suggestion.

"Take me with you and I'll let you have your night walks."

Jungkook's immediate reaction was unexpected. He seized Taehyung's shoulders forcefully and gripped them hard, shaking him.

"No! No, you can't! You should never go with me! You.........you can't do that.........." He whispered shakily, wide eyes terrified beyond reason.

He roughly pulled him close so that they were eye to eye. Then lowly, he growled in his face.

"You can't do that, you understand me? Never. You........."

He couldn't let him come with him. He'd be in danger once he meets with the person Jungkook had to meet up with. He couldn't risk that. Jungkook promised them that it'll be him and only him who'll come to them tonight.

Taehyung on the other hand, was taken aback.

Never, had Jungkook ever raised his voice at him like that. Ever. As well as use force on him like that, too. Never.

"Jungkook?" He whispered, eyes blown wide and lips trembling in fear.

The man seemed to have come to his senses and realized what he had done.

"Oh, shit," he whispered, loosening his grip on Taehyung. His hands trembled but remained placed on top of Taehyung's shoulders.

Wetting his lips, he sighed shakily and brought his frozen husband to his chest, closing his eyes.

"Fuck, I'm sorry, Tae. I'm sorry, baby, so so sorry. I didn't mean to do that. I don't know what came over me, I just.........I'm so sorry."

Taehyung was too shaken to even process and respond to what he was saying. His heart was racing in his chest, but his mind was blank. Empty. Too frozen in the state of shock that came with Jungkook's sudden outburst.

"Baby, I didn't mean any of that. I just......I want you safe and.......and if you go with me, you can get hurt. You'll be in danger........" He continued.

Jungkook started pressing kisses to his soft dark locks, apologizing over and over. He didn't mean to shout at him.

"I shouldn't have yelled at you. I'm so sorry, Tae. I love you so much, I swear. I'm sorry I yelled at you, I really am. I shouldn't have done that."

Taehyung just nodded numbly and gave a shaky breath. His airways felt constricted and so did his heart. It hurt. Angering someone you love hurt so much. Their reactions more so.

Not knowing what to do, Taehyung just started speaking the words that appeared on his head right away.

"You know," he started, "I'm not going to stop you. It's clear that you have a lot of things going through your mind and that you need some time to think, so, you can go on your night walk."

He pulled away and forced a smile, trying to encourage him to go. His heart ached with every beat.

"Baby----" Jungkook tried to talk, but Taehyung cut him off.

"No, no, it's fine. If I can't come with you, then it's okay. I'll just wait for you here, yeah?" He leaned in and pecked him on the cheek.

Jungkook looked at him worryingly. "Taehyung, I'm sorry."

Taehyung laughed it off and waved his hand as a sign of dismissal. "It's okay! Don't worry about it! Although don't stay too late. And you keep safe, alright? I don't want you involved in another incident like last time."

He took his hand then pressed a kiss to his knuckles and his wedding ring, still keeping up with the smile. "You go and do some thinking."

Jungkook looked unsurely at him and studied his features. He knew he hurt his husband's feelings, and he knew that Taehyung was forcing a smile and trying to push him away just to hide it. He knew how Taehyung worked.

But, deciding not to hurt his feelings any more than he already did, he just kissed him softly before standing up and righting his beanie.

"I won't be long," he mumbled.

Taehyung watched him head for the door, pleading silently for him to go faster because he could feel his tears threatening to spill, as well as his smile dropping.

Jungkook sighed when he opened the door, but immediately turned back when Taehyung called him.

"Jungkook."

He whipped around. "Yeah?"

He looked back at him and saw him smiling hopefully at him. It made his heart clench to know that it was fake.

"You remember your promise right? Tomorrow?" He asked.

Jungkook nodded.

Taehyung nodded back, satisfied. "Good."

"I'll head off now."

"Okay."

Taehyung crumbled the moment the door clicked shut. He slumped against the couch, letting his tears fall from his eyes and a lingering sob to escape his lips.

He clutched at his hair and sniffed, replaying the way Jungkook gripped his shoulders and gazed at him angrily. How his fingers dug into his skin and the tone of his voice raised at him..........

Maybe he got it all wrong. Maybe it was him that was making Jungkook so angry. Maybe it was his presence that was the reason Jungkook had been so aloof the past few days. Maybe.

But they had such a wonderful morning together.

And Jungkook wouldn't have initiated making love if he was somehow annoyed with Taehyung.

Wiping his tears away, Taehyung sniffed once again then walked over to the window, parting the curtains just enough to see Jungkook coming out of the building, hands in his hoodie's pockets and his beanie prominent.

He silently willed him to turn around, to look exactly at the spot he was standing on, to cancel his walk and to just come back and talk to him instead, but he knew it was impossible.

He was the one who pushed him to take his night walk after all.

Taehyung watched him until he merged with the dark streets, until he reduced into a small speck in the distance and he couldn't see him anymore. Giving up on his wishful thinking, he went to the kitchen to get himself some water.

Now he was the one who needed time to think.

Chapter Text

Taehyung laughed bitterly while he pulled out a glass and took a pitcher from the fridge, putting it all on top of the counter.

He had planned to sleep with Jungkook right after his TV show ended, snuggled close and wrapped in each other's arms, but it didn't look like he would have his husband with him for the night, or even get to sleep for that matter.

He felt terrible.

Pouring himself some water, Taehyung laughed at the irony of it all. There he was earlier, just thinking that their sweet moment couldn't get destroyed after Jungkook's romantic gestures.

Turns out it was just going to get worse. And to top it all off, Jungkook raised his voice at him. For the first time.

He apologized and all, but he still did the one thing that he promised he'll never do.

What was happening to them? Was their marriage finally having the assumed strain it would have after years of peaceful living? Were they lacking something? Is that what was happening?

Taehyung didn't want to know.

All he wanted was to finally have some quiet rest and alone time with his husband after a year of busy schedules. Was that too much to ask?

He shook his head, raising the glass and tipping it to his mouth.

But before the liquid could even touch his lips, his ringtone went off, breaking the silence of the penthouse and making him jump.

He placed the glass down, looking around for his phone. He went back to the living room to pick it up and didn't forget to check the caller ID before swiping.

He cleared his throat before putting on a cheerful tone. "Hey, Jin-hyung."

"Hey, what's up, Tae? Gosh, I miss your voice! Are you in town?"

"Uh, yeah. I'm actually having a few months break. Jungkook is, too. He's in hiatus," he said.

Jin squealed in delight. "That's wonderful! You're both on break? More time for each other, I guess." 

Taehyung sighed in his head. I hope so, too, he thought.

"Anyways, I just finished editing and posting a video so now I'm bored. I thought maybe I could ring you up and hear from you, because it's been months since we last talked! Did you miss me?"

Kim Seokjin, also known as Jin, is a close friend of Taehyung's. He used to be Taehyung's chatty next door neighbor who actually pushed him to start dating Jungkook.

Taehyung moved apartments after getting married, but didn't lose touch with the male. They'd become close and were absolute besties.

Jin is a very handsome brunet, and is also a famous food vlogger. He goes around local diners to famous restaurants to taste their food and tape his review on them. He's also a great cook.

"Of course I missed you," Taehyung smiled. He missed his jolly voice and personality. He missed his presence, too.

"Good to know," Jin nodded, satisfied. "Because I missed you, too."

Taehyung chuckled.

"So," Jin drawled, "what's up with you? To be honest, I actually didn't think you'd pick up, considering the time. How come you're still up, anyway?"

Taehyung grinned and rolled his eyes, walking back to the kitchen.

"No reason. And nothing much," he lied, suddenly thinking of Jungkook.

"Uh huh," Jin seemed suspicious. "Are you sure though? 'Cause when you say 'nothing much' I know you've actually got a big problem. I know you try and downplay everything, Taehyung."

Damn, Jin knew him well.

"Yes, I'm sure." He replied, lying again.

"As in, really sure?"

"Yes, Jin-hyung."

"Like, a hundred percent sure?"

"Yes!"

Jin sounded dubious. "Are you really, really, really, really sure though? You don't have anything to tell me?"

"Yes. None at all." But he was starting to have second thoughts.

"I can hear you doubting yourself, Taehyung. I know you have something to tell me."

Taehyung laughed. "I swear that I don't."

"Really?"

"Yes, really."

"Really really?"

Taehyung sighed quietly, contemplating whether he should let him in on his worries. Could he tell Jin? He wasn't the type to go blabbing it off to people and actually came up with best solutions to problems sometimes. He was a good ear, too.

"You hesitated."

Taehyung huffed, smiling.

"Okay, fine. I have a little problem, although I don't know if it's of any importance-------"

"Of course! Any problem is important, no matter how big or small!" He exclaimed. "What's it about, anyway?"

Taehyung nibbled at his fingers, suddenly anxious. He walked through the threshold of the kitchen and situated himself in front of the counter.

"Well, it's about Jungkook............" He said quietly admitted.

Jin gave an audible gasp on the other line.

"Is he cheating on you?" He said excitedly.

"What? No! No! Why would you think that?" He yelled. Jin's assumption shocked him to the core.

Jin tutted. "Bummer."

Taehyung growled.

"Oh, come off it," he said. "That would've been the best tea ever. One that I would've very much loved to sip."

Taehyung sighed. "Do you want to hear me or not?"

"Oh, yeah! Go on."

And so Taehyung told him his concerns with Jungkook, ranging from the past few days, to Jungkook's little outburst, which Jin had gasped at. Taehyung spilled the tea, and Jin liked it very much.

"Oh my god. He did that?" He asked incredulously. Jin knew that the two had a very peaceful marriage, and that Jungkook was always calm and would never lift a finger or raise his voice on Taehyung.

Expect the unexpected, he thought.

"But he was loving and very affectionate during your, erm, activity," he tiptoed around the personal matter, "and earlier this day, you say?"

"Yes," Taehyung muttered, feeling down. Thinking about it made his heart feel heavy.

"That's strange. Have you tried snooping through his phone? Maybe find out who he's always talking to?" He suggested.

"No!" Taehyung refused. "I may want to know who he's always talking to, but I don't want to do that. That's invasion of his privacy."

"Meh. He won't know. You'll do it at night, once he's asleep."

"No." Taehyung said firmly.

"Ugh, fine, then. Have you tried just asking him what's troubling him?"

Taehyung sighed and rubbed his eyes. "I've tried, hyung, believe me. But he always says he's fine and pushes me away."

Jin clicked his tongue. "Huh. I guess your best chance is to just wait for tomorrow. He did promise to tell you, so I hope he does. Communication has always worked between you two before. I'm sure it'll solve this problem for sure."

Taehyung sighed. "I hope it does. And fast."

He hated having misunderstandings with Jungkook. He wanted to make up with him and get the matter resolved as soon as possible, so that they can enjoy their little time together before work calls for them again.

"Unless he's cheating on you, then that's going to be ugly," Jin said nonchalantly.

That suddenly piqued Taehyung's interest. He had denied it earlier, but after he and Jin talked about Jungkook's behaviors, he was slightly intrigued.

"Hyung, what makes you think that he's cheating on me? You've been saying this since earlier," he muttered.

"I'm saying it," Jin rolled his eyes, "because of the facts. Tae, he's been distant, cold, he doesn't realize you're there, he sounds like he'll isolate himself if possible, and he had the horrible reaction where he raised his voice on you and grabbed you. Plus, there's the mystery person he keeps talking to every time. It all smells fishy to me and it points me to the conclusion that he's cheating."

Was Taehyung crazy for suddenly considering it as slightly plausible?

"There's just one thing that's not sitting right with me," Jin continued. "If he's cheating, then why would he initiate the love making and do all those sweet stuff for you? As far as I know, once someone is tired with the person they're with, they'll do their best to avoid them and limit any romantic contacts. Why'd he do it, though?"

Jin was right. His theory might have sounded likely, but there just wasn't enough proof to point to Jungkook cheating. There were abundant facts, but their connections were blurry and didn't fit well together.

"Ugh, you know what? This is driving me nuts. I'm glad I'm not married yet," he grumbled.

Taehyung happily jumped on what he said to avert the topic.

"You make it sound like being single is nice," Taehyung teased.

"Who says I'm single?" Jin smirked.

Taehyung gasped. As far as he knew, Jin had been single for a year.

"You have a new boy toy?" He snickered.

Jin giggled. "Yup. Got him ever since you left for Paris. He's very handsome, and he works for the government."

Taehyung raised a brow. Jin hated dating people who worked for the government. Said they were too busy.

"A police?" He guessed.

"Eh.........kinda. He's a detective. I met him one time at the supermarket, during the early morning. I craved for some ramyeon and soju and happened to not have any. I walked outside and a guy snatched my wallet. Thankfully, he was there, and he was buying milk or something. Said it helps him sleep. I went to their station the next day to thank him and I guess we hit it off pretty well there," he proudly said.

Taehyung sighed. "I hope he lasts. Didn't your previous boyfriend last for, I don't know, a month?"

Jin scoffed. "That guy was pretty but doesn't know food. He only eats ramyeon everyday and orders takeout when I'm not there to cook for him. He could die before we get married."

Taehyung muffled a snicker before nodding. "Uh huh. And what's your new guy's name?"

Jin sighed dreamily. "Kim Namjoon. You'll love him, Tae. He's very handsome and so, so, nice. He may look intimidating because of his job but he's nothing but a small little fluff ball!"

Taehyung smiled. He loved hearing Jin talk so sweetly about the guy. Their relationship sounded genuine, and Jin couldn't have seemed to be more in love.

He was just like Taehyung when he and Jungkook started texting each other after their first encounter.

Jin's chatter about his boyfriend made Taehyung currently forget about his problems, and it felt really nice. Taehyung really missed his company.

He suddenly had an idea.

"Hey, what do you say we meet up two days from now? We can visit that café where we used to hang out," he offered.

Jin gasped. "Really? Yay! Quality bonding time between you and me!"

His enthusiastic response made Taehyung grin, making him feel like his problem was already far away.

"Okay. Thank you so much for this, hyung. I really needed it," he felt deeply grateful.

Jin awed. "No need to thank me. It's just a good thing that you answered. Otherwise, you'd probably be hanging yourself or jumping out the window."

Taehyung rolled his eyes. "Ha ha."

"Anyways, I should probably go. It's late and I haven't slept in days. Namjoon's been keeping me up," he giggled.

"Ew. TMI, hyung."

"Well, you should go sleep, too," he yawned. "Stop thinking about stuff and just get a good night's rest."

"I will, hyung, thanks."

"Bye, Tae," he said, and then made kissy noises at the phone.

Taehyung laughed. "Bye, hyung."

He hung up and sighed, looking down at the phone. Nothing felt more better than talking to a close friend. He felt like a weight has been removed from his shoulders.

Looking at the clock, his eyes widened.

1:34.

They've been talking for more than an hour. And it seems like Jungkook still hasn't returned.

Slumping, he wandered to the bedroom and lied down on Jungkook's side of the bed, wishing he could come home sooner.

No more holding off till tomorrow. He'll confront him as soon as he gets home and he won't be able to dodge Taehyung's questions this time.

He wanted the truth and he was going to get it from him.

Chapter Text

They say that dreams are the hidden thoughts lurking about in your head, or they could sometimes also be desires or omens about something that will happen in the future.

Taehyung just hoped they weren't anything real.

He had intended to follow Jin's advice, get a good night's sleep to sort his thoughts out and recharge his energy, but the dream that occurred to him did anything but that.

Perhaps it was because he was thinking of Jungkook, or maybe that he slept on the side of Jungkook's bed, because the dream mainly revolved around his husband.

He had opened his eyes to a bright surrounding, hearing the sound of crashing waves and seagulls and the smell of salty sea air.

It was very calming and serene, as well as comforting and familiar.

Observing his surroundings, he took note of how deeply blue the sea looked, and how fine the powder sand was. Both stretched out for miles and miles and the only thing that ended them was the blue sky littered with clouds.

The sun was shining and the temperature was just right, with the breeze blowing as lightly as possible which shook his hair a little.

The scenery was very much idyll, emitting vibes of tranquility and quietness that you couldn't find in Taehyung and Jungkook's everyday life.

It was all very beautiful.

He bent down to try and feel the sand but felt his clothes constrict his movements. Looking down, he was surprised to see himself dressed in his wedding clothes.

It was a white suit that was clean-cut and elegant, adorned with a small cluster of various flowers on its breast pocket that served as a boutonniere, and a fancy brooch on its lapel. It was from a designer brand, specifically from a friend of Taehyung's, and everything was designed to accentuate his body frame and curves, especially his small waist.

A designer friend had made it specially for him, for free, and it matched Jungkook's which was still from the same designer. The only things that changed were the brooch, the style, the boutonniere, and other subtle and minor details that perfectly differentiated the two's preferences but complemented them at the same time.

A great idea if you ask Taehyung, honestly. And Jungkook was okay with everything.

Taehyung adjusted the suit before planning on having a walk. It seemed like he was the only one here, and there were neither people, plants, nor animals, save for the seagulls flying above the water.

His white shoes made a faint crunching sound as he treaded along the shore, looking around and wondering why he was the only single person on the beach. He picked up various shells along the way, and used them as substitute for rocks when he skipped them on the surface of the water.

He also tried to pet the few seagulls that managed to land on the ground, but ended up scaring them away.

Smiling, Taehyung continued walking while he put his hands in his pockets and immersed himself in the view before him. Nature couldn't have looked more beautiful and offered him his much needed piece of mind.

It was like a paradise.

The sounds were soothing, the scenery fantastic, and the fact that only he gets to witness it all was absolutely incredible.

No one could disturb him, and he was having it all to himself.

Or so he thought he did.

While gazing into the ocean, with the wind playing in his hair as he watched the waves race to reach the shore, a certain small and black butterfly landed on his fringe.

He frowned, confused as to why a butterfly suddenly appeared out of nowhere. He wondered where it came from.

He carefully reached to touch it, wanting to capture the insect, but before he can even make contact, it flew off, hovering in front of his face before flying away to somewhere unknown.

Taehyung stared after it, flapping its wings lazily and seeming as if waiting for him to catch up.

He was skeptical at first, feeling an Alice in Wonderland vibe and thinking of several scenarios that could happen if he followed it. It could turn out to be a trap or something, but what harm can a small butterfly do?

Almost as if impelled, he jogged after it and pursued it, although they just ran and ran and ran on the never ending sand and he never seemed to catch up to it no matter how hard he tried.

It was always so near yet so far, and the speed he applied to catch it seemed pointless.

He's ran out of breath and everything, but every time he stopped, the butterfly would, too. And when he continued, the butterfly would fly just out of his reach.

He began to wonder if it was worth it, and if there was even something he'll see at the end of his chase because all he saw was sand, sea, and skies ahead of him. Nothing more, nothing less.

Shaking his head, he just ran after it again and hoped that whatever the butterfly was leading him to, it would be something important.

After what seemed like a long time chasing, his eyes spotted something dark in the distance, like a small black dot. It was hard to decipher from afar, but the dot seemed to be moving, even hovering above the sand.

The insect flew directly towards it, but Taehyung hesitated. What if it was dangerous?

What was it anyway, that compelled him to follow the insect in the first place? He could've just stayed and admired the view, blissfully enjoying the peace and quiet but no, he just had to follow the butterfly.

He drew closer to the dot, only realizing that it was a man once he was close enough.

Taehyung noticed that he was also dressed in a white suit, and the black dot that he saw was actually the mop of hair that he had, blowing in the wind. The man's back was to him, and he knew all too well who it belonged to.

"Jungkook?" He whispered.

The male turned around at the sound of his voice, looking surprised to see him there.

Taehyung gaped at him.

"Taehyung! There you are!" Jungkook exclaimed softly. "I've been waiting for you."

He was dressed in his wedding suit as well, and he smiled widely before walking over to Taehyung.

"Me?" The other frowned, staring at Jungkook when he seized him by the waist before kissing his cheek.

Taehyung was puzzled and looked around for the butterfly, but it had already vanished. Perhaps flew off once it's served its purpose leading him here.

"Yes, you. Who else could it be?" Jungkook rolled his eyes.

"But what for? What are you doing here?" He asked incredulously, placing his hands on Jungkook's chest.

The man chuckled, tapping his nose once.

"Did you forget? It's our wedding day, silly."

Suddenly, it all took a dark turn and they weren't at the beach anymore. The beautiful scenery faded away and got replaced with the interior of an old, abandoned church, all dilapidated and mouldy.

They stood in front of the altar, whose podium was broken down and in splinters.

The mosaic windows were all shattered and boarded up, the pews overturned and eaten by termites, walls dirty and covered in vines, and the huge double doors were hanging by its hinges. Even the floors were covered in mud and dried leaves.

Taehyung was horrified, turning to Jungkook who still had an arm around his waist to keep him close.

It was a little dim inside the church, and the only source of light was the one pouring from the doors. Everything was quiet except for the slight wind, and Taehyung's voice that echoed when he spoke.

"Jungkook, what is this?" He whispered in terror, eyes wide.

Jungkook only smiled at him, but it was off. It seemed somewhat strange and sinister, like he had something planned that Taehyung didn't know about.

It sent his heart racing, and something cold and heavy to settle on his chest.

Jungkook tapped his nose once again, planting another kiss on his cheek before pulling away from him, walking down the aisle.

Taehyung was befuddled, watching the man spread his arms wide while still looking at him and walking backwards.

"I told you, didn't I?" His voice rang out. "It's our wedding day."

Something suddenly fluttered in front of the doorway and Taehyung's eyes flicked to it.

The black butterfly from earlier was back, and it landed on the floor before turning into a tall and slim figure, dressed in dark clothes.

Jungkook approached the person, still smiling but somewhat happier, and took their hand, pressing a kiss to it.

He pulled something shiny out from his pocket before slipping it on the other's finger.

Taehyung felt his heart drop. He looked down at his hand and saw that his wedding ring wasn't there.

The black figure seemed to be a guy according to his build and height, and his face wasn't visible, as if shrouded in a dark veil that obscured his features.

He slowly lifted a hand, armed with a gun, and he pointed it steadily at Taehyung.

The male started to tremble, feeling fear grip at his heart. How could Jungkook do this to him?

"Jungkook......." He cried, letting tears slip down his cheeks.

This wasn't his husband.

Jungkook looked regretfully at him, a sad smile upon his face while holding the man's hand.

"I'm sorry, Tae," he said. "But I'm just.......tired, you know?"

"How could you do this to me?" Taehyung uttered, feeling totally betrayed.

His whole body had gone numb to the point that he couldn't feel anything. Even his mind had short circuited, and all he could see was Jungkook's hand and his ring on the stranger's.

This couldn't be real.

Please don't let this be real, Taehyung wished.

"Don't do this to me, Kook."

Jungkook sighed, shaking his head. "I'm sorry, Tae."

A gunshot was heard but Taehyung didn't feel anything. He just knew that something red was blossoming on his chest and staining his clothes, fast. He didn't want to look down. He didn't want to know that this was the end for him, that he was dying.

He just looked at the two people by the doors, seemingly glad with what they did. They hugged, before Jungkook sealed their lips together.

That was it for Taehyung.

His knees buckled beneath him and he fell down the floor, breathing heavily. He laid on his back, seeing the dirty ceiling full of cobwebs. But it was better than seeing the two before he closes his eyes.

Black started to appear at the edges of his vision, and everything seemed to get blurry. His breath got caught in his throat, and something spilled at the corner of his mouth.

The last thing he saw was Jungkook coming up to crouch beside him, smiling sadly and pressing a kiss to his forehead.

Taehyung woke up frozen.

His body was covered in cold sweat, his heart was pounding, and tears were streaming down his face.

It was a few minutes before he could finally move again, unclenching his frozen fingers from the sheets first then lifting his stiff body from the mattress.

He looked at the other side of the bed and didn't see a sleeping Jungkook there, so he figured that he still must've been out. The covers were untouched unlike his side.

He took one step at a time, careful not to slip and to support his trembling figure.

His throat was parched so he decided to head for the kitchen, seeing the glass of water he had prepared before.

He took it with shaking hands and drank gratefully, feeling as if he had been deprived of it. His eyes unconsciously flicked towards the clock.

4:07.

He sighed once the glass was empty and placed it back on the counter. He didn't seem to have noticed that he placed it at the edge and once he lifted his hand, it fell to the floor and shattered.

Taehyung flinched at the loud sound, feeling his stress double.

He stared at the pieces of broken glass shards, dread starting to take over him as a mental image of Jungkook occurred in his mind.

He suddenly had a bad feeling.

He clicked his tongue and went to clean it up, thankfully not hurting himself. He double checked to make sure that no shard was left behind so as to not injure himself or Jungkook the next time.

Once done, he grabbed his phone from the bedroom and checked to see if Jungkook had called.

Puzzlingly, there weren't any, which was strange. Jungkook had never stayed out for more than two hours. If he would be a bit late, he'd call in the least. He'd never let Taehyung worry.

Instead, there were multiple missed calls from an unknown number, about twelve, with the first one from over ten minutes ago and the most recent one only a minute earlier.

Taehyung's brows knitted together. Who was this?

At the same time, his phone suddenly rang, making him jolt, with the unknown number flashing across his screen. 

He decided to answer it, getting an urgent and important vibe from it.

Swiping, he put the phone against his ear and spoke.

"H-Hello?"

"Hello, is this Mr. Kim Taehyung?"

Taehyung frowned at the polite female voice that responded.

"Um, yes? Who is this? Why do you have my number?"

"Oh, forgive me for the intrusion sir, but I'm calling from the hospital," she added in an apologetic tone.

Taehyung felt his soul leave his body.

No. It couldn't be. Only one thing went through his mind at that moment.

When he didn't respond, the woman continued.

"You are the husband of Mr. Jeon Jungkook, correct?"

"Yes," Taehyung whispered.

"Sir, I would like to inform you that he was admitted here about twenty minutes ago, and that he seemed to have been involved in a car accident. I'm calling you as you are the only relative of his and to tell you that he's in a critical condition. He's also undergoing surgery right now."

If it wasn't for the couch, Taehyung would've fallen over or collapsed. He felt his strength get sapped away and his limbs to turn into jello in an instant.

His heart clenched painfully and his airways got constricted, robbing him of breath while tears fell freely from his eyes and down his cheeks, dripping on his chin and wetting the front of his shirt.

"Sir?"

Taehyung didn't respond.

The next thing he knew, he was grabbing his coat, putting on his shoes, and stuffing his car keys in his pocket, rushing as fast as he can to the hospital.

He wasn't even sure if he was breathing or not.

All that mattered was that he got to Jungkook in time, and that he made it through the operation. He didn't even care if he looked disheveled from sleeping or if he still had tear stains all over his face. He didn't even know if his coat was inside out, or if he tied his shoelaces before he dashed out the penthouse.

His dream was momentarily forgotten, his reality being much more important. The feelings he got from the vivid and disturbing scenes that he witnessed were nothing compared to how he felt at the time.

It wouldn't even amount to what he felt at the moment because that was all fake. A dream. Or a nightmare. This was real life. And he couldn't just wake up from it once things go bad.

You have to deal with it face to face because there was no escaping reality unlike his dream.

That was just the way it was.

Chapter Text

Twisted ankle. Whiplash. Multiple gashes, cuts, and bruises. Internal bleeding. Broken bones. Head trauma resulting to coma. Contusions and cracked ribs. Hairline fracture in his skull.

Despite everything that happened, the doctors said that Jungkook was still lucky to be alive and breathing. Many people would have died after sustaining such harrowing injuries but the male managed to pull through.

Although he entered a state of comatose after the surgery to fix his broken bones and the internal bleedings, they said that he was going to be fine.

Taehyung laughed at that.

Fine? There was nothing fine about the current situation.

He barely recognized his husband the moment a nurse escorted him to Jungkook's assigned room. The mangled man in the bed before him looked nothing like Jungkook.

He was almost covered in bandages, casts, gauzes, and plasters, and the rest of his skin was either wounded, or had a purplish blue color. Even his bare face looked pale and sickly under the hospital light.

Taehyung almost fainted.

What did Jungkook do to deserve this? What did they both do?

Was it so hard for them to just finally live quietly together after a year of work? After not seeing each other? It seemed as though there was an invisible force always separating them and letting bad things happen to them. All he wanted was to live peacefully with Jungkook.

The nurse left after letting him in, and that gave Taehyung the opportunity to break down instantly.

He sobbed in his hands, sitting on the chair beside Jungkook's bed. He wanted to touch him, maybe just caress his face or hold his hand, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. He felt like Jungkook might break under his touch. Like a fragile glass.

Speaking of touch, his tears halted when he noticed that Jungkook's left hand was empty. His wedding ring was gone.

He frowned, leaning closer and examining his hand.

Where was it? How come it wasn't on his finger?

Thinking that the nurses might have taken them off before his surgery, he disregarded it.

Then he just stared at him. All morning. Alternating between crying and watching over him.

Taehyung had never felt so helpless and hopeless his entire life. Not to mention heartbroken.

It all hurt to the point that he felt his chest going numb and his eyes not having anymore tears to shed. His throat was dry and hoarse from crying, his nose was clogged, and his eyelids felt heavy and puffy that he just wanted to close them.

For what seemed like hours in that silent and white room, Taehyung just sat. If not crying while looking at Jungkook, he'll be staring blankly at the wall.

He just didn't know what to do. What to feel. Or what to think.

Something inside him seemed to have been broken.

Eyes landing on his husband again, he suddenly wondered if he could hear him crying. Or maybe if he felt his injuries or anything at all. Anything else to indicate that he was alive except for that annoying heart monitor beeping quietly.

Now Taehyung suddenly felt like raging. He wanted to scream, throw something or even punch someone. He wanted justice. He wanted the person who hit Jungkook to pay for what they had done.

Taehyung had met with a police officer earlier when he arrived, who relayed the details of their investigation to him while Jungkook was still in surgery.

"A couple was driving by from a relative's birthday party when they happened to notice someone lying down in the middle of the road," the police said.

"Thinking it was a drunkard, they drove around him and planned to leave him alone, when the wife suddenly said that it didn't feel right. They returned, and when they took a close look, it was your husband, sir. Lying in a pool of his own blood and unconscious. They immediately called for an ambulance and the police, which is a good thing for your husband. Anymore later, he would've died on the street due to massive blood loss."

Taehyung nodded and tried to keep a straight face no matter how much he wanted to burst into tears at the moment.

"We will assign some officers to this case and carry on with further investigation. Until then, this is the only information I can tell you."

He shook hands with the officer before he left with his partner, and that left Taehyung in the waiting room while he prayed that Jungkook was alright.

Not that long afterwards, the doctor had come out and told him that Jungkook was finally in a stable condition but would need a long time to heal. He said that Jungkook was hit pretty badly and gave Taehyung a clear picture in his head, but he never actually thought that Jungkook would look like someone tried to maim him.

He barely recognized the battered man as they wheeled him carefully to a room.

Now, looking down at him, it still felt like it wasn't Jungkook at all. But it was. He just had to accept that it was his husband in front of him.

He just had to accept that this was happening to them, even though he wasn't prepared for it.

He had to cope with it.

Taehyung decided to call someone, feeling like he'll collapse any minute. He pulled his phone out, checking that it was an appropriate time before dialling.

The person answered in the fifth ring.

"Mmh, yeah? What's up, Tae?" A hoarse and groggy voice answered on the other line.

Taehyung swallowed thickly, feeling tears rushing to his eyes again.

"Uh, hey, Jimin," he forced a cheerful greeting, "how are you?"

There were several shuffling sounds before Jimin responded.

"Did you seriously just wake me up at 7:03 in the morning just to ask me that?" He groaned teasingly.

Taehyung cracked a smile before sniffing.

"No. I'm sorry, I," he sniffed heavily, tears escaping the corners of his eyes.

"Whoa, did I offend you? I'm sorry if I did," Jimin suddenly sounded wide awake and apologetic.

"No, no," Taehyung shook his head, wiping his tears away. "No, you didn't."

Jimin frowned. "Taehyung. What's wrong? Why are you crying?"

The crying male shook his head, putting on another smile as if Jimin would somehow see it.

"I'm not!" He denied. "I'm not crying."

Jimin scoffed. "Bij, like, I know you ever since you and Jungkook got married and I know what people sound like when they cry. Don't try and fool me. I'm not an idiot."

Taehyung sighed. Jimin, just like Jin, was very observant when it came to people.

"Fine. Don't freak out, but I'm in the hospital," he said.

One.

Two.

Three.

"SAY WHAT?! WHY?! WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU?!"

"Jimin, calm down please," he whispered. "And I'm fine, nothing happened to me."

"Why are you in the hospital, then?!"

Taehyung took a deep breath and held his new batch of tears in before speaking.

"It's Jungkook. He was in an accident."

There was a brief two second pause before thuds, rustles, and heavy breathing emanated from his phone.

"Jimin?"

"I'm coming right over."
 
"Jimin, wait----"

"I'll be there in fifteen!"

"Jimin----"

The call ended.

Taehyung pulled the phone away from his ear and stared at it, seeing the call duration with Jimin before it disappeared.

He sighed, looking back on Jungkook.

"Well," he smiled weakly. "Your best friend's on his way."

Park Jimin was Jungkook's former childhood friend and current best friend. They grew up together in the same hometown but they both moved to Daegu when they started out their careers.

Whereas Jungkook became an idol, Jimin became a full-time famous vlogger. His content was mostly random, but often they would be about travelling, eating, and fashion. He has about millions and millions of followers and fans, and he makes good money out of his profession.

He met Taehyung when he and Jungkook started dating, and became close with him after they got married. They got along pretty well and soon were besties as well.

He's guested Jungkook on his videos a few times, the same as Taehyung, and the most frequent guest on his videos was Jin.

Mostly because they shared the same passion about food, the two got along immediately when Taehyung introduced them to each other. They'd go out frequently, eating in several restaurants and whatnot, helping each other with their own contents.

Though he may not often say it, Taehyung really appreciated their presence and his friendship with the two.

Next, he dialled Jin's number who was, no surprise, also sleeping. He was grumpier when he answered but his reaction was the same as Jimin's.

"What?! Are you for real right now?!"

Taehyung had to pull the phone away from his ear.

"We were literally just talking about him last night and now...........ah, damn I feel so bad. And I accused him of cheating, too." he muttered.

"Don't be, hyung."

"Anyways, I'm sure you've cried your eyes out these past hours, judging from your voice. Don't you dare move from there because I am coming right over. And I mean it."

He ended the call firmly and Taehyung was left once again to stare at Jungkook while waiting for the two.

He sat down beside him, eyeing his bandages and casts, before tearing up again. He wrapped his arms around himself to try and keep him together, something that he had learned to do through the years.

Often Jungkook would be the one to hold him and wrap his arms around his figure, but seeing as he's in a coma and injured beyond reason, Taehyung had to do it by himself.

It's really strange, when you've had someone supporting you but then all of a sudden, they collapse. You've been so used to the feeling of having to lean on something that you don't even know what to do when you're left to stand for your own.

You feel strange. Hurt. Isolated.

Just how Taehyung felt.

"Sir?"

The previous nurse who led him in had returned, peeking from the door.

He sniffed. "Yes?"

She bowed and entered, closing the door behind her. Walking over to Taehyung's seated form, she held out something small and black to him.

"This came in with your husband, sir. It was in his pockets when he arrived."

Taehyung stared at her before his eyes fell on the thing she was holding. He took it carefully and studied it.

It was Jungkook's wallet. He opened it, seeing his cards and money stashed inside, and all of it was stained with a little bit of blood.

Tears fell from his eyes again, and he clutched the small object to his chest.

"I'll leave you alone now. I see that you need to have some time recuperating." The nurse bowed once again and was just about to leave when Taehyung stopped her.

"Wait."

"Yes, sir?"

"Is this all? What about his phone? His ring, too. He's not wearing it."

The nurse paused and frowned at him.

"I'm sorry sir but, I'm not quite sure I know what you're talking about," she furrowed her brows.

"Um," he gulped, closing the wallet and sitting properly.

"When you took him here, did you not find his phone, or maybe see that he was wearing a ring, something that looks just like this?" He held up his hand and showed his wedding ring.

"Hmm..." The nurse squinted at it and made sure to look at it properly. She was positive that the patient only had a wallet on him and nothing else.

"I'm sure, sir. His wallet was the only belonging that was found with him when he was brought here."

"Oh, really?" Taehyung felt uneasy all of a sudden. Then where was it? Where was Jungkook's ring?

Smiling, the nurse nodded to him and left immediately after that. "Have a nice day."

He stared at the door for a good few seconds before shaking his head.

Frowning deeply, Taehyung looked down at the wallet before turning to Jungkook.

He was absolutely sure that Jungkook was wearing his ring before he left. He saw it. He even held his hand with it. And it couldn't have fallen off during the accident, it was a perfect fit on him. A little bit tight to be honest, so it was impossible to have it falling off his finger after he got hit. Unless.........

Unless someone took it.

Someone must've gotten to him before the couple who helped him did.

And his phone was gone, too. All that was left was his wallet, which would've been the first to get taken in case it was a robbery. It had thousands of dollars in it and had his cards, too, so that would be quite a fortune to anyone who'd take it.

Slumping in his chair, he sighed exasperatedly and rubbed his temples after pocketing the bloody wallet.

Why did it suddenly feel like what happened to Jungkook wasn't an accident? How come the two things which seemed least likely to be stolen were the ones actually taken? And the wallet which was every robbers' goal was untouched.

Unless Taehyung was overthinking again. Stress causes him to do so which makes him barely able to function. He felt like the gears in his head were stuck.

Hugging his knees to his chest, he just hoped that the two people he called on would already arrive. He needed someone right now, and there was possibly nothing more comforting than his friends' embraces.

Chapter Text

(Someone's POV)

My plan was finally set in motion. Everything was bound to go smoothly, considering that Jungkook finally learned his lesson.

My heart was still pounding in excitement, and I could feel the adrenaline running through my system. Organizing events like this, making sure that it went as perfect as I had envisioned it to be, it always got me going. I feel like I should do more.

How about Taehyung's demise next time? That would be fun.

I sit back in my car seat, parked and hidden in the darkness while watching the police from afar, scouring the street for any evidences about Jungkook's seemingly hit and run case.

I snort before laughing lightly. Stupid policemen. It's better if they stop planting their noses in other people's businesses. They're nothing but lousy asses who never get their job done properly in the first place. They just pretend that they do and get credit for sitting in their chairs and acting like they're doing what they can to protect the people and their city.

Plus, they'll never find anything in that crime scene. I've cleaned it all up, all except for Jungkook's blood, and I've removed everything that could be used as evidence, including his phone.

I placed it in my pocket, cracked from the impact but thankfully still functional. The only problem was that it needed his thumbprint to open.

Clicking my tongue, I guess I could just call up a friend hacker to get into it for me. Nothing is more important than hiding Jungkook's and my conversations. If Taehyung gets ahold of Jungkook's phone, he might discover our sweet messages to each other. Although Jungkook's would mostly be angry ones, I know that he's just hiding his love for me behind those words.

But his ring, on the other hand, now that was just for souvenir. And it was a sign of his and Taehyung's marriage so removing it was necessary. It doesn't deserve a place on Jungkook's hand.

Giggling, I twirled it between my fingers. A thin silver band which was very simple, it was very pretty. But the only thing destroying it is that it has an engraved and calligraphed Taehyung on the inside. My name should be the one written in there and not his.

Oh, my heart started leaping in my ribcage at the sudden thought that popped in my head.

What if we get married after this? Where will we go on our honeymoon? How amazing will it turn out to be? Will we travel around the world?

I sigh, closing my eyes and leaning my head back on the head rest. This evening was so exhilarating!

To be honest, watching Jungkook get hit was painful but also most definitely pleasurable to me.

The way his twisted body rolled over many times and started bleeding out onto the street, oh, it was so beautiful. Like a masterpiece. I nearly cried.

And the way he looked at me while his eyes closed and I had walked over to take his phone, I swear that it was as if he was saying sorry to me. I cooed at him and brushed his hair back, but when he whispered Taehyung's name before he lost consciousness, I felt like he deserved to be hit again. Over and over.

I didn't want to do it, but I wanted my Jungkookie to know that he should never cross me. He should've known better. I told him to stay away from Taehyung. I even ordered him to divorce him if he could! But he's being stubborn and refuses to do as I say, so I needed to punish him. Bad boys deserve to be punished. He knows that once I make promises, I make sure to keep them.

I told the driver of the car to dispose of the vehicle, make sure that he leaves no traces, and to return to my house afterwards where I'll give him the money for his services.

It was nicely done in fact, and I might give him a bonus for doing what I told him to do perfectly. Now Jungkook would have a hard time trying to disregard any orders I tell him to follow.

Considering that this was only for the purpose of Jungkook's punishment, this accident will only be a one time thing. But the gunman that I've hired to follow Taehyung around, now that will have to stay for awhile.

I told Jungkook that he can't tell Taehyung anything about our relationship otherwise I'd have the annoying model shot.

While that mostly kept him quiet at first, he was mad and didn't believe me. But then I sent him a photo of the gunner, aiming directly at their apartment's window, and that shut him up. It was so damn satisfying to have control over him and have him submitting to me.

I admit, it was just to scare him and get him to conform to my wishes, but then I realized just how bothersome and a hindrance to my plans Taehyung actually was.

Ugh, that Kim Taehyung.

What did Jungkook even see in him? He's nothing but a pretty face. Meanwhile I, have always been here by his side, supporting and loving him ever since he started out small in the industry. I was always beside him, helping him grow and nurturing him from the sidelines. I've already planned out everything. Our dates, our wedding, our children, but then that Taehyung just had to show up and ruin my plans.

How dare he capture Jungkook's attention? How dare he seduce him and take him away from me? If it weren't for him, Jungkook and I would be together by now. We could have started a family.

He's nothing but a whore, a worthless piece of human who stole Jungkook from me. I'll make sure to get him out of the picture in no time. And I'll do so slowly and painfully to make him feel the pain that I felt when he stole my Jungkook from me. I'll torture him to the point that he'll wish he was dead, yet I'll keep him alive enough to remember it all.

But all in good time.

At first I have to make sure that my sweet Jungkook would heal from his punishment, although that would definitely take a long time.

It doesn't matter. Now he knows how to be obedient and follow my orders like I tell him to do.

Our love will never foster if he keeps defying me, and there's no such room for disobedience in this relationship. Once he recovers and I finally get rid of Taehyung, he'll learn from his mistake and he'll come to me willingly.

We will run away from this and form a happy family somewhere far from the city.

I can't wait for it to happen.

Now all I have to do is to plan how to dispose of Taehyung, and I'll do it in the most excruciating way possible.

Time to head on to phase two.