Truth Between Us ??

𝄞⨾𓍢ִ໋🎧ྀི playing - Dum Dum by Jeff Satur

⨯ . ⁺ ✦ ⊹ ꙳ ⁺ ‧ ⨯. ⁺ ✦ ⊹ . * ꙳ ✦ ⊹

The courtroom fell into tense silence as the proceedings commenced. The judge entered, taking his seat at the front. The gavel struck once.

"The court is now in session."

Jungkook barely heard the words. He barely registered the murmurs that spread through the room as evidence was presented, as testimonies were called. His hands remained clasped together, resting against the ink on his collarbone.

The ink—etched into his skin just minutes ago. A desperate attempt to hold onto something, someone.

Even as the prosecution began listing the crimes of his father and Wonsung's entire network, Jungkook sat still, unmoving. His father didn't look at him, didn't acknowledge his presence.

Not that Jungkook cared.

He wasn't here for him.

He was here for Taehyung.

"Prosecution, call your first witness."

Mr. Choi stood. "The prosecution calls Jeon Jungkook to the stand."

A ripple of whispers spread through the courtroom. Jungkook exhaled through his nose, steadying himself before rising. Every step he took toward the witness stand felt heavier than the last.

He swore he could still hear the ocean waves crashing below that cliff. Swore he could still feel Taehyung's hand slipping through his fingers.

"Please state your name for the court."

Jungkook's fingers tightened into fists before he spoke.

"Jeon Jungkook."

"Mr. Jeon, you are here today to testify regarding the crimes committed by your father and his associates. Are you prepared to give your statement?"

Jungkook lifted his gaze, dark and unreadable.

"Yes."

Mr. Choi walked toward him, adjusting his glasses. "Let's start with your knowledge of the illicit dealings conducted under your father's orders. Can you confirm that you had access to confidential records proving his involvement?"

Jungkook's jaw clenched. Then, with an unwavering voice—

"Yes."

His father visibly stiffened. The entire courtroom seemed to hold its breath.

Minho and Seokjin watched from their seats, their fingers digging into their arms, waiting.

"And when did you first discover this information?"

Jungkook inhaled slowly. "Years ago," he admitted. "But I never had proof. Not until I went looking for it myself."

His father finally turned his head. His voice was low, warning.

"Jungkook."

Jungkook didn't even glance at him.

Mr. Choi continued, "And what motivated you to come forward now?"

Jungkook's throat tightened.

Taehyung.

The reason he was standing here, the reason he was still breathing instead of lying somewhere at the bottom of the ocean. The reason he hadn't let himself drown with his grief.