Threads of fate

Jin woke up feeling drained, the weight of last night's conversation with Minji still lingering in his mind. He had barely slept, his thoughts trapped in an endless cycle of memories, questions, and emotions he couldn’t yet untangle. He had spent so many years believing one thing, and now, the truth had shattered everything he thought he knew.

But today wasn’t about him.

With a deep breath, he pushed himself out of bed. Tomorrow was Minji’s wedding, and no matter how lost he felt, he wouldn’t let his emotions cloud her happiness. She had always been there for him, never asking for anything in return, and now it was his turn to do the same.

After freshening up, Jin stepped out of his room and found his mother in the hallway. Mrs. Kim gave him a knowing look but didn’t say anything. Instead, she gently squeezed his hand, silently offering her support. Jin forced a small smile in return before heading downstairs.

The moment he entered the living room, his children ran toward him.

“Appa! Look at my drawing!” Jiwon beamed, holding up a colorful sketch.

“Appa, I helped her with the colors,” Jiho added proudly.

Jin’s heart softened at the sight of them. No matter how lost he felt, his children always grounded him. He crouched down and took the drawing from Jiwon’s hands, admiring the bright colors.

“It’s beautiful,” he praised, ruffling both their hair.

“Are you coming with us today?” Jiho asked eagerly.

Jin nodded. “Yes. We have a lot to do before Minji’s wedding.”

The kids cheered, and Jin found himself smiling for the first time that morning.

Meanwhile, at the resort, Jungkook was wide awake, restless and anxious. He had barely slept, his mind replaying everything over and over again—Jin’s expression, his words, the pain in his eyes.

He wanted to see Jin. He needed to.

But he knew he couldn’t rush things.

The members were already up, preparing for the wedding events, but they kept a close eye on Jungkook. They knew how much he was struggling, but they also knew Jin needed time.

“Maybe he’ll come today,” Jimin said, trying to be optimistic.

Jungkook let out a bitter chuckle. “Or maybe he’ll keep avoiding me.”

Yoongi sighed. “He’s not avoiding you, Jungkook. He’s processing everything. Just like you needed time to deal with the blackmail and the past, Jin needs time to understand what really happened.”

Jungkook ran a hand through his hair. “I just— I don’t want to lose him again.”

“You won’t,” Namjoon said firmly. “Jin isn’t someone who runs away from the truth. He just needs time.”

Jungkook exhaled slowly. He hoped Namjoon was right.

Because this time, he wasn’t going to let Jin slip away.

Jin arrived at the resort with his children and family, determined to focus on Minji’s happiness. He was still conflicted about everything that had happened, but he refused to let his emotions overshadow the wedding preparations.

As he stepped out of the car, he saw Minji waiting near the entrance. She immediately smiled and walked over.

“You came,” she said warmly.

Jin nodded, offering a small smile. “Of course. I wouldn’t miss this for anything.”

She studied his face for a moment but chose not to bring up last night’s conversation. Instead, she linked her arm with his and led him inside. “Come on, there’s still a lot to do.”