The following day, Jungkook, in an unexpectedly thoughtful gesture, suggested I take some personal time. He recommended a visit to a salon or spa, expressing his desire for me to look good by his side.
I knew he made this suggestion to avoid feeling embarrassed by having me around.
Getting ready, I took a cab to Seri's mother. I wanted to know about Seri, why was she like that?
Why was she insecure? For what? Jungkook already married her, then what happened to her?
And why do I see in my nightmares that I was killing her?
Maybe finding all this out won't make a huge difference, but Jungkook's constant accusations against me really need to stop.
The journey to Seri's mother's supposed location, a two-hour drive, turned out to be fruitless. Seri's mother had relocated eight years ago, residing six hours away in another city. Disappointment clouded my thoughts as I returned, determined to shift my focus to preparations for the upcoming evening.
After returning, I took my time getting ready. I tried on a dress that fit like a dream but was a bit too revealing. To balance it out, I chose to pair it with a long coat.
In the evening, I went to the salon with Mr. Choi, showing my outfit to the staff. I went for a simple makeup look and a sleek ponytail because bold didn't seem right, except for some sparkling eyeshadow.
Draping the long coat over the dress, I felt comfortable and could breathe, but I still wasn't confident in it. Luckily, that coat gave me a boost of confidence.
Under Mr. Choi's escort, Yn gracefully entered the party venue. Jungkook, expecting her arrival, awaited in his car. As he emerged seeing Yn's car and gallantly opened her car door, presenting his hand to her. Stepping out, she held his hand, a vision of magnificence that captivated onlookers.
Her beauty was nothing short of extraordinary. Adorned in a style and makeup distinct from her usual choices, she showcased a unique and mesmerizing charm.
The details in her outfit emphasized her features, and the way she confidently carried herself added a touch of sophistication that turned heads. She was styled differently. Jungkook, struck by her presence, found himself momentarily frozen on the spot.
However, Yn, sensing his gaze, nervously cleared her throat. In an abrupt shift, Jungkook's expression changed from admiration to irritation as his gaze shifted to her coat and he jerked her hand away, intensifying her anxiety.
Jungkook's hand disdainfully brushed against her coat as he clutched it, his words laced with irritation, "What are you wearing? Always trying to provoke me. And this coat, not even worth $100—"
Zoe swiftly intervened, draped in a stunning, elegant gown. As Yn scanned the surroundings, she noticed everyone adorned in graceful gowns, even those in shorter dresses emanating decency and beauty.
"Let it be, Mr. Jeon! I'll accompany her. Please, enjoy the event," Zoe calmly interjected, attempting to defuse the escalating tension.
However, Jungkook, seething with both annoyance and anger, abruptly turned away, striding inside with his manager, leaving Yn standing there alone amidst the elegant gathering.
"Why are you wearing this? This coat looks really cheap over this dress. Take it off. He is a fashion icon and as his wife, you should consider these little things. Didn't you see how Seri used to style?" Zoe advised her, making her feel beneath.
However, Zoe was right. Yn was aware the coat didn't complement her outfit, but she felt stuck without other options. Yn took off the coat, tossing it inside the car, and joined Zoe. In the dimly lit areas, Yn cautiously moved, staying close to Jungkook. The shadows provided some cover, but the proximity to Jungkook added a little fear to her steps.
Some people gawked at her like she was from another planet, unable to look away from the stunning sight. Despite feeling exposed, her curves and features attracted the onlookers. Yn swallowed her anxiety with a single drink, originally deciding against it, but the relentless stares took a toll.
Meanwhile, Jungkook engaged in conversations, drink in hand, and Zoe unnecessarily pulled her from one place to another.
"Mr. Valor, who's this sexy lady? Didn't know we'd get some performances here," one man inquired to another young business tycoon.
"Mr. Jeon's wife," the response came, accompanied by a thorough examination of Yn from head to toe.
The inquiring man fell silent, realizing her identity. "Oh, great!" the inquirer remarked.
The man swiftly downed his drink and made a hasty exit from the scene.
════ ⋆★⋆ ════
"Mr. Jeon, where's your wife?" As the question about his wife echoed, Zoe stepped up, showcasing Yn proudly. "She's here, ladies and gentlemen... Meet Mrs. Jeon Yn," Zoe chirped with enthusiasm.
Jungkook's gaze fixated on Yn, and a dangerous storm erupted within him. His blood ran cold with a surge of anger, and simultaneous chills and heat engulfed him. Her every curve screaming through the dress. He fumed clenching his jaw seeing her visible navel that should have been the least visible from any of her other exposed areas.
"Hello Mrs. Jeon, you're so pretty as we heard. Nice to meet you." The one said as Yn shook hands with them and responded, "Hello ! Nice to meet you too." She smiled.
One of the business associates who knew Yn as his secretary once, said, "Mrs. Jeon, your dress is certainly unique. Is it inspired by the latest fashion trends or is it a personal touch?"
Yn nervously replied, "Oh, just thought I'd add my own flair to the party theme tonight." She adjusted her dress, trying to act casual and confident.
"Mr. Jeon, you've got a real eye for fashion. Your wife looks like a high-end runway model." The other one said, sipping on his drink.
Jungkook with a forced smile, "She always surprises me with her choices." Yn caught a glimpse of his disapproval, his jaw tensing subtly.
"Is this a cultural thing? I mean, you're not fully Korean, right?" The other one remarked.
As Yn mingled at the party, her heart raced with anxiety beneath the shimmering, unconventional dress. She could feel the weight of judgement in the air, and every compliment felt like a double-edged sword.
Yn's anxiety was rising and sweat beads formed everywhere on her skin, she gulped and handled the situation gracefully, "I have both Korean and American roots, embracing the best of both worlds." She forced a smile.
"Sure thing ! Mr. Jeon, your wife's style is so... refreshing. Definitely a break from the usual sophistication here." One scoffed, he seemed amusing checking her out again and again while all chuckled politely.
Jungkook gritted his teeth, "She has her own way of making statements." Yn noticed his discomfort, a flicker of annoyance in his eyes.
"You're lucky, Mr. Jeon. Having a model wife must save you a fortune in hiring fashion consultants."
Yn fidgeted, sensing both admiration and subtle criticism in every statement.
Throughout the evening, her confidence wavered, caught between a desire to fit in and the need to stay true to herself. Jungkook's expressions ranged from a forced smile to subtle discomfort, revealing his disapproval.
The business associates, on the other hand, showed genuine admiration, curiosity, and subtle critique, making the compliments feel both praises and mocks.
"Excuse me!" Jungkook declared, calmly guiding her away from the crowd, outside.
"What's wrong with you? You're almost naked. This isn't your club party. It's a professional gathering, not your personal runway. You're making a fool of yourself. I didn't know 'trashy' was a fashion statement until I saw you tonight. Bravo! So embarrassing. Whom did you plan to seduce here?"
He took off his blazer and tossed it onto her face, instinctively she held it. "Go back home. Am I clear?" he commanded, jerking her and striding away, leaving her alone. His manager handed him his coat as he disappeared inside.
Overwhelmed by the relentless stares and hurtful comments, Yn found herself at a breaking point. Tears, which she had been holding back with all her might, finally rolled down her cheeks.
With frustration and sorrow, she exclaimed, "I wore it because you bought it, bastard, so you won't feel embarrassed but I guess I'll remain an insult for you, forever !" Determined to escape the judgmental atmosphere, she rushed towards her car, sobbing.
However, upon reaching her car, she realized her coat was missing. Concerned, she questioned her driver, who revealed that Zoe had taken it.
Yn understood Zoe did it purposely that's why she was being polite to her. Yn took Jungkook's blazer and threw it on the ground. Stepping on it, she crushed the garment beneath her heels.
"Freaking Jeon, you thought humiliating me was your grand plan, but guess what? You failed. Everyone couldn't take their eyes off me in this fucking outfit, except you," she muttered angrily.
She walked inside with determination, finding a seat. Taking shots, she kept an intense gaze on him, who was engaged in polite conversations with business colleagues. The atmosphere shifted as they all gathered for the cake ceremony in a wide hall area.
After the cake cutting, the music set a lively atmosphere, and people started moving to the rhythm. After a few minutes, Yn rose from her seat, approached Jungkook, and seized his hand. He cast an irritated glance at her as he found her still in the same position, shutting his eyes in visible frustration, unable to escape the situation.
Undeterred, Yn turned around, forcefully placing his hands on her bare waist. The tension between them simmered beneath the surface.
Jungkook was left dumbfounded, his breath stuck in his throat for a moment as she gently guided his hands across her skin.
Around them, some people were staring with wide smiles, clearly captivated by her sensual moves. Jungkook swallowed hard, finally finding his voice to caution, "Don't make a scene here, Ms. Carter!" He whispered in her ear.
"Jungkook, remember when you beat the crap out of Rob for touching me inappropriately, here?" She chuckled, guiding his hands over her waist. "There was everything between us—understanding, care, support, affection except a confession. We were toppers, cool, and people were envious of us. Whenever you held my hands, I tried to mask my throbbing heart rhythms, but I was not the only one experiencing this. Your heartbeats were practically screaming at me, and your eyes were shouting affection, yet you never admitted. What held you back, Jungkook? Why not me? Why didn't you choose me? Why just why?" Her eyes filled with regret and sadness, replaying moments from their shared past.
Through her words, a deep longing surfaced for the Jungkook she used to know – the protector, the one who stood up for her. The ache in her heart revealed the absence of his old self, expressing a deep desire for him to rediscover the connection they once had.
"You're drowning in your own desperation, trying to fill your void with anyone who'll pay attention. Find another fool to entertain your pathetic desires." He remarked, his hands still holding onto her trying to cover her but couldn't do much.
She giggled. "Why couldn't you see that I just wanted your hands on me? Tell me you don't feel anything when I touch you. Tell me there's nothing in your heart for me." She trailed his hands from her waist to her thighs, then turned around to face him.
Running her hands over his chest, she said, "Your heart is beating so fast, Jungkook, just like before. Tell me it's not because of me," she asked, her words a bit shaky as there gazes were fixed with each other, everything around them paused for a few moments.
He realized she was now drunk and about to create a scene. She traced her fingers over his lips and brushed her lips on his neck. Looking into his eyes, she said, "I am your wife, Mrs. Jeon Yn. Give me one kiss, please." Cupping his face, pouting and closing her eyes, she was about to kiss him.
Realizing something, "Your touch disgusts me, Ms. Carter," Jungkook declared, pulling her hands away and guiding her to sit elsewhere.
The recent incident left him unsettled and uneasy, his mind clouded with unclear visions and scenes. He saw Seri rushing to him, tears streaming down her face. The guilt weighed heavy on him, feeling like he had betrayed her by touching another woman.
Despite his desire to leave the party, two business associates insisted on having drinks with them. Jungkook glanced at Yn, who sat calmly, nibbling on starters. With a heavy sigh, he reluctantly joined them for drinks.
Zoe joined Yn and made her drink one more shot, "Two seconds bitchhhh, you did that fucking you did..I'll beat you,'' Yn retaliated by pulling Zoe's hair.
"Ahh no! Listen to me first," Zoe pleaded, holding Yn's hands to restrain her. "Two seconds, bitchh! Don't you dare confess to him. You'll be doomed. I will kill you. He's my Jungkook, you bloody—"
To prevent Yn from saying more, Zoe covered her mouth and guided her outside. "Oops, Yn! I forgot to give you one bag yesterday. It had a beautiful and stylish imported long fur coat to drape over this dress. Sorry, babe! Let's forget it and go back to your home. I'll take care of your husband. But I wonder why he made you look like a stripper? He bought me this dress. How's it?" Zoe twirled before Yn, showing off her own dress.
Yn's heart tightened as she observed Zoe looking elegant and classy, causing her to envision herself as nothing more than a stripper. Memories of her nightclub days flashed before Yn's eyes, realizing that Jungkook still saw her in a demeaning light, considering her no more than a slut.
Her anger heightened as she glared at Zoe, questioning why Jungkook would buy her such a dress. Fueled by frustration, Yn grabbed another drink and tossed it onto Zoe's dress. "Two seconds bitch, you look beautiful now..." Yn chuckled, walking away toward her car. Zoe stood there, shocked, humiliated, and embarrassed, despite the scene being witnessed by only a few.
Wiping away her tears, Yn approached her car, about to open the door when a hand reached out, pulling her into the darkness. "W-Whoo?" she stammered, the deep sadness in her emotions palpable as she faced the mysterious encounter.
He pressed his lips against hers, kissing her passionately while his hands explored every inch of her body that she allowed Jungkook to touch. Although she didn't resist, she didn't respond to the kiss either. Tears streamed down her face as he gently wiped them away by licking them, his touch bringing comfort and sorrow.
"I prefer the sweetness of your tears over the saltiness. No more crying, Sugar! " he uttered, attempting to soothe her. She chuckled amid her sobs and hugged him, finding a momentary comfort in his arms.
"Why does he keep doing this to me? It hurts every time. I can't stand him, but I end up doing everything he wants because maybe he's not good to me, but he's a decent person. He treats my family well. Kai, please help me understand why he's so heartless," she spilled her emotions.
"Too much love, Sugar! Maybe rushing into marriage with him wasn't the best move. You should've taken your time to decide. He proposed, and you hurriedly accepted. Regardless, always remember you're worthy," Kai comforted her, his fingers gently tracing patterns on her back until her turmoil subsided. Recognizing the closeness, she quickly pulled back. "I-I'm sorry. I overstepped," she apologized.
"You can step on me anytime," he joked with a playful smile. "What brings you here?" she asked, shifting the focus of the conversation.
"After all, I'm in this business too," he playfully remarked, each word drawing smiles and laughter from her.
Kai continued weaving jokes, and they shared a few more shots, causing Yn to lose herself in the moment, completely.
"Kai—my d-drink is really bad. I-I need to go. Thank you for ch-cheering me on!" she slurred, attempting to make her way.
Seeing her stumbling, Kai guided her to his car. "Mr. Choi! Mr. Choi! Come out! Where aRe yoU hidinG ?????" she called out loudly.
"I'll drop you," Kai offered.
"Shhhh!!!!! Mr. Jeon would find out and think I'm having an affair. He will scold mee," she whispered, stuttering and giggling.
"Sugar?"
"Kaiiiiii?????"
"Keep loving the way you do. I'd like to be a part of the love you've always given him. Just change the person, not your love. Be mine," he earnestly proposed, his hand gliding over her nape and cupping her face as he locked eyes with her.
"Wh-What are you saying? Who is the author of these lines?? Mr. Elite... You're drunk too," she giggled, accompanied by a burp. "Oops, soRrYyy..." she laughed.
"It's okay. We'll have this talk when you're in your senses. I don't want my confession to go to waste," he smiled, holding her hand and guiding her to his car.
"Kai—love is bad, very bad. I loved him, but he never did. He loved her, and she died. No one is happy, Kai. Life is c-cruel," she hiccuped, tears streaming down again. He gently wiped her tears, settling her in the passenger seat and adjusting it to recline.
He drove her to her place, familiar with the route. He put his blazer on her shoulders and rang the doorbell. Ms. Bae answered, quickly assisting her. He inquired about her room, Ms. Bae gestured upstairs.
Carrying her in his sturdy arms, he led her to her room and carefully laid her down on the bed, taking off her heels. She had dozed off by then, peacefully sleeping. Ms. Bae stayed with them all the time, ensuring Yn was comfortable.
"She's just drunk and will be fine till morning. I'll take my leave," he assured, heading back home. Ms. Bae had already informed Jungkook about the situation, and he was on his way.
Upon arrival, Jungkook found Yn sleeping on her stomach, curled up, her duvet hanging on the bed edge.
He saw Kai's blazer still attached to her and he aggressively tore away from her, frustration evident in the forceful movement, and flung it aside. As he turned her around, their faces came closer, she was smelling a mixed scent of alcohol and masculine perfume.
Examining her closely, he observed that her lips bore marks of either a prolonged, passionate kiss or the aftermath of being wiped aggressively.
Carefully, he started removing her jewellery one piece at a time. When he reached for her neck, unclasping her necklace, she grasped his hand.
"JuNg—koOk, remeMbeR me pleAse—I aM youR kiWi— yOu're bAddddd BasTardD fuck youu Go aWay—I hAte yOu..."
Taking his hand away and gently covering her with the duvet, he responded, "I hate you too, Ms. Carter! I hate you so much that I couldn't keep you away for a long time, constantly reminding myself of how much I hate you." With those words, he left her room.
I woke up at a decent morning hour, dealing with a slight hangover from the previous night, still clad in the same outfit. Recalling the vivid scenes from the night before, I smacked my head and sat there, nursing it for a few moments.
Flashbacks hit me, remembering the inappropriate things with Jungkook.
Oh shit ! Nooooo!
I wished I could vanish, feeling embarrassed and regretting how I let him see exactly what he probably thought of me - a desperate bitch.
Zoe's actions came flooding back, too.
Then there was the kiss — wait, a kiss?
Kai was there! But I can't recollect anything that followed.
Who took me here? Kai? Jungkook? Mr. Choi?
After freshening up, I headed to the kitchen, unlocking the door for Ms. Bae. Today, it seemed either I was early or Ms. Bae was running late.
Opting for a light breakfast, I prepared chamomile tea and some veg sandwiches.
Ms. Bae arrived and swiftly joined me. Curious about the previous night, I inquired, and she disclosed that a tall young man brought me home.
So, it was Kai.
Heading to my room, I retrieved my dead phone and plugged it in for a charge. Changing into formal attire, I indulged in some skincare routine.
Turning my phone on, I discovered Kai's messages and three missed calls. He seemed concerned about my well-being or if I was still asleep. I responded, assuring him that I was fine. Heading downstairs, I spotted Jungkook at the table, having breakfast.
"Mr. Jeon, I thought the dress was supposed to be styled with a fur coat you bought for me, but Zoe didn't hand it to me. It was just the dress, heels, and stockings," I explained, recalling Zoe's words.
His intense gaze bore into me, "Yet you opted to appear underdressed. Has it always been your style?" Snatching something from his blazer, he tossed it in my direction.
As I gathered the pictures, I witnessed my appearance – flawless face, impeccable hair, and perfect makeup, but the dress portrayed me as if I were a hired exotic dancer for a private party. It screamed glamour, heat, and sensuality, but lacked the elegance and decency he expected.
I gulped seeing them from many angles.
But it's fine, my ass was nicely covered and my cleavage was also not that much showing. My navel was visible, something that Jungkook made freeze in our days. A chuckle escaped me, recalling that scene. He was cute.
However, he shot me a disapproving look. "Still no shame? Ah! I get it, that's why you ended up in a club instead of pursuing a respectable job where your termination wouldn't be such a big concern!" His scornful remark triggered me.
"Look who's talking about respectability? The one who shattered a woman just because she confessed her feelings, done in her intoxicated state where she momentarily forgot about the consequences, where she believed she might die anytime but didn't want to go without expressing her feelings.
Who destroyed a woman just for loving him for a damn nine years or possibly even longer. I understand it was wrong of me to confess when you were distant and already someone's husband. But my confession wasn't intended to break your marriage.
If you had simply fired me, we wouldn't have ended up in this mess. Loving you became my greatest sin, and you're still punishing me for that damn reason. The weight of my emotions has become a constant burden. Move on, Mr. Jeon. Free me, and in doing so, free yourself.
Only then might you be able to sleep peacefully at night without relying on those neurological pills. It's affecting your brain, numbing the emotions you should be confronting. Let go of the chains that bind us, and maybe, just maybe, you can find peace."
Dishes crashed from the table, and Ms. Bae hastily exited the house. Jungkook, fueled with aggression, stood up, locking onto my arm, and steered me outside. Ms. Bae, respectful of our privacy, bowed and went back inside. Jungkook directed me to the driver's seat, instructing me to drive and not to eat his brain early in the morning.
I thought he'd grab my jaw or clutch my throat but he didn't do anything.
Internally amused, I chuckled at witnessing him fuming, unable to counter my words because deep down, he knew the truth of what I'd said.
My phone buzzed persistently, and I checked the messages once we had a red signal. Kai expressed a desire to meet, but after the awkwardness of our kiss, it didn't feel right. Perhaps it was fueled by alcohol, or maybe there was some underlying attraction, but it was wrong, and I couldn't blame him because I had allowed it.
I replied that I couldn't meet today. Jungkook was observant, paying a lot of attention to me lately, although he didn't say much.
Time skips—
Today, amidst the cloudy weather and the rumblings of a thunderstorm, he bashed many people, and I simply avoided him. The gloomy atmosphere outside seemed to mirror his anger.
He was scolding three individuals regarding work. I quietly returned to my seat. He wasn't pleased with the project finalization and was pointing out mistakes, his frustration echoing the turbulence outdoors.
He has eagle eyes, spotting errors in no time.
Years of hard work, practice, and experiences.
"Who's supervising you?" he asked loudly, his voice a thunderous echo.
"Mr. Moon," one of them replied. He sighed and instructed his manager to address the issue. The manager left with them for their department. Jungkook, amidst the outside storms, removed his glasses and had a glass of water. I rose and walked toward him."
He looked super angry as I rarely saw him, that too just because of some mistake. It seemed more personal.
"Valor !!!" He muttered, forcefully striking his fist on the table.
"What?" When he locked eyes with me, I cautiously suggested, "It's almost time. If you're finished, we can head home." He glanced at the clock, his irritation evident, and began packing his belongings.
"Yeah! I'm already pissed off!" he declared with finality, slamming his laptop shut.
Zoe entered. Witnessing Jungkook's intense mood, she swiftly started packing his things, and powered down his systems.
"I need Valor's file on my desk first thing in the morning," he instructed, and Zoe nodded multiple times.
Zoe then offered, "Do you want me to come with you?" Her words made me shoot her a quick glance.
He turned to her, saying, "Run your hands instead of your mouth," as he snatched his bag away. A suppressed laughter escaped me at the unexpected comment.
That was enough to burn her.
As we prepared to leave, those words sliced through the air — "Jungkook! You're changing! Don't forget Jungkook loves Seri, and you always loved her."
Infuriated, I turned towards her, striding purposefully in her direction.
"We all know he loved her and will always love her. You shouldn't bring up his beloved without a genuine reason. It must be someone's emotional breakdown. Have some conscience," I warned her. In response, she let out an evil laugh, pointing behind me, leaving me perplexed and uncertain.
I glanced behind and saw him standing frozen in his tracks. Worry flooding me, I hurried to him, his hands trembled, and sweat dripped down his face. "Mr. Jeon," I murmured, realizing that Seri's memories had engulfed him.
The weather was screaming at me to soothe him - "You're my sunshine in stormy days, brightening everything around. In the darkest nights, you're the comforting glow. Even in the heavy rains, you're the gentle shower that washes away worries. I couldn't imagine life without you." and recalling his words that I was his comfort place, I momentarily forgot our present equations.
As I reached out to comfort him, he forcefully pushed me away, causing me to tumble onto the couch's armrest. He quickly stormed out, leaving me bewildered.
Zoe approached with a sarcastic tone, saying, "It took me just two seconds to show you your place," followed by laughter.
What was that?
Why does he become like this?
Fueled by concern, I hurried outside into the stormy weather, the sky already shrouded in darkness and the drizzles leaving the air damp. He marched towards his car, raindrops clinging to his hair, and a thin sheen of moisture glistening on his clothes.
His driver hesitated for a moment, glancing between us and the escalating weather. Yielding to the urgency in my actions, he reluctantly stepped away. I swiftly settled into the driver's seat.
In the car, Jungkook's face was a canvas of pain, tears streaming down. Witnessing such a heartbreaking scene through the rearview mirror left a heavy feeling inside of me.
It's tough – part of me wants to offer comfort, but is it right to step into his world of hurt? The pouring rain became a melancholic backdrop, amplifying the echo of his cries.
Upon reaching home, urgency led him to swiftly unlock the door and head straight to the kitchen. I observed silently as he reached into the liquor cabinet, pulling out two bottles of exquisite whiskey—choices from his vast collection.
In the grip of extreme pain and anger, he poured himself a drink, the amber liquid swirling in the glass, the smell filling the room.
Locking the main door, I retreated upstairs, aiming to avoid him. In my room, I locked the door, attempting to create a barrier from the confusion outside. Changing into night clothes, I laid on my bed, thinking about what just happened and Zoe's cryptic words.
Time passed, and my thoughts shattered with his furious yells and pounding on my door. Alarmed, I rushed to open it, and he seized my fabric from my neck. "Mr. Jeon..."
His breath stank of alcohol as he forcefully dragged me downstairs. With each step, my arms ached from his grip, and I stumbled, yet he showed no mercy.
The pain was overwhelming, but I managed to retaliate.
My protests fell on deaf ears as he continued his relentless descent, my body helpless against his intoxicated strength.
At the final step, gravity claimed its toll, and I crumpled to the floor, he dragged me along the floor and stopped at the main door.
In a fit of uncontrollable rage, he bellowed, "Why the bloody hell did you do that?" The door flung open violently. Summoning my courage, I stood, trembling. "I did nothing, Mr. Jeon. I didn't kill anyone. Please, just leave me be."
His eyes, ablaze with a kind of possessed fury, bore into mine. The grip on me tightened mercilessly, each word an icy shard of anger that pierced through. The pain intensified as if his fury was physically manifesting through his grasp.
With a violent force, he hurled me out of the house, leaving me sprawled on the ground.
My eyes widened in shock. This was intense. How could he do that to me?
Pointing towards the turbulent outside weather, he voiced his hatred, "Look at that, just like that ! You're the storm that ruins everything, the darkness that engulfs my nights, and the heavy rain that drowns me. Your presence is unbearable, making every moment a torment. I hate you, Yn Carter. I hate you."
His each word was an arrow piercing my already shattered heart. As the door slammed shut on my face, the weight of his hatred and abandonment crashed down on me.
On the verge of giving up, I stood alone, the echoes of his words ringing in my ears. The world seemed to blur, and hope slipped through my fingers like grains of sand, leaving me teetering on the edge of despair.
"Jungkook, what was my fault? Loving you? At least tell me, damn it face it !" I shouted in desperation, banging the door, my cries drowned out by the thunderstorms and unforgiving rain. I stood there, expecting the door to swing open, but he remained barricaded within.
Under the relentless downpour, I stood there for what felt like an eternity – 20 long minutes, hoping for a break in his anger. But he stayed locked away inside. It was as if he had turned into an emotionless statue.
In a state of hopelessness, I stepped out of the house through the main gate. His hurtful words echoed in my mind, a deep wound I couldn't escape. It felt like surrendering, giving up on defending myself against his accusations, blames, and cutting words.
At last, he won. I lost !
I used to think I could endure every torture and resentment he threw my way, but it had become overwhelming, suffocating. With each step, I strolled barefoot towards the road, the pouring rain soaking me through. Strangely, I didn't feel the chills, I moved like a lifeless body, my spirit broken.
Crossing the road, I found solace in the park, seeking refuge from the storm within and around me.
Now, chills wrapped around me like a cold embrace, and I clung to myself, shivering uncontrollably on the park bench. Tears streamed down my face, and in my heart-wrenching plea, I called out,
"Dad! Please take me from here. Please, Dad! Please! Mom, p-please!"
Jungkook, the one we lost ages ago, is now an emotionless shell. "He doesn't even show an ounce of empathy, Mom! He hates h-hates me so much, Dad! He hates me to the death!"
A desperate cry escaped me, "Please, Dad, p-please reach me, understand me! It's too much to handle. I'm sorry for always troubling you, but I want to sleep peacefully. It feels like I'll forever remain restless under the weight of hatred, degradation, destruction. I feel like I'm stuck, Dad. Please, please pull me out of this darkness. I'm losing myself. Mom, Dad... Mom, Dad... Dad..."
Crying my lungs out, I begged for help, for someone to stand by me. The despair threatened to consume me, and I feared taking drastic steps if left alone. Suddenly, a comforting shelter emerged over my head. Looking up, I saw Ms. Bae, holding an umbrella. She covered me with warm, thick fabric.
"Ma'am, my place isn't that big, but it's cosy enough to keep you warm," her tone mirrored the kindness of a mother. Grateful, I rose and walked alongside her as it was becoming too much to handle and I wanted someone to take care of me, understand me, guide me.
A 10 minute walk brought us to her rented two-floor house, situated on the ground floor.
Her home was beautiful, clean, and warm. She handed me some clothes, turning the heat on to chase away the chill.
After changing, she gently dried my hair and insisted on feeding me, despite my refusals, and made me sleep, massaging my feet.
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As the morning light touched the horizon, she greeted me with a dried fruit smoothie. She promptly called Mr. Choi, who arrived within five minutes.
Despite my reluctance to return to Jungkook's place and the excuses I made, she reminded me it's about her job in that mansion. She reminded me, as the house owner, my presence was necessary.
Jungkook's parents frequently inquired about us from Ms Bae, yet she had kept them in the dark, protecting our shared secret.
Reluctantly, I agreed, and we headed back. When we reached the door, Ms. Bae was about to ring the doorbell, but I stopped her and unlocked it myself. She offered a consoling smile, saying, "He shared it with you, that's a huge thing."
"Isn't it a basic thing to know, Ms. Bae?" I questioned, but she shook her head, denying my assumption.
Jungkook was already in the kitchen, looking all formal. As our gazes met, I swiftly retreated to my room upstairs, avoiding any unnecessary interaction. I lay on the bed, deciding not to drive him today.
What more could he possibly do?
Fire me?
As if I'd signed some contract with him. Huh!
He didn't bother calling or coming to me after everything that happened. Ms. Bae brought breakfast to my room, sharing that he had left for the office early today.
Seriously?
I am damn sure now, he has some disorders. To be precise – Seri's possession.
But I hate you even more now.
The time is not far when you'll start assaulting me physically, last night's actions proved it.
I questioned Ms. Bae about anything he might have said. She shared that he appeared furious, skipped breakfast, and departed without uttering a single word.
I've had enough of this miserable, pathetic life. Now, I won't dwell on anyone else's thoughts or bother about people's opinions. I'm going to do what makes me happy, living life on my own terms. I won't be dictated by anyone's conditions.
Brace yourself Jungkook, you might be the one asking for a divorce soon. Spend the rest of your life with your dead wife's memories. I'll forge my path independently. Even if I don't earn much, I'll work hard and soon reach a better phase.
Mr. Jeon Jungkook ! Your name can't bind me anymore. The hatred you've shown in these past few days shattered the fragile hope I had in this relationship. Unknowingly, you've brought an end to whatever we still had.
Fate seemed against us from the start. I was the one constantly trying, the one shedding tears, offering prayers, and loving you intensely, often forgetting my own needs.
All that care, concern, and jealousy you showed—it was just a show, wasn't it? Maybe you couldn't stand the thought of me being happy with someone else, so you wanted to see me suffer, both then and now.
But I've had enough. More than enough.
Thanks, Jungkook! Thanks a lot!
It's over!
And it's over for good!
This version of Yn might not despise you the way you despise me, but I won't feel anything for you. You don't even deserve my hate, let alone anything else.
Time skips —
In the office, Jungkook found the file he instructed on his desk. When after a few minutes, Zoe came in with coffee, he scolded her harshly for mentioning Seri's name and not handing Yn's belongings to Yn. His voice echoed through the office as people gathered, creating quite a scene.
Trying to keep his composure, he said, "Ms. Zoe, you should leave right now unless I sign your termination." His eyes closed, jaw clenched, and fists tightened.
Zoe, tearful and hiccuping, pleaded, "I-I didn't mean to. I thought you'd cheat on Seri soon with your current wife."
In an eruption of intense anger, Jungkook shot up from his chair, flinging a glass of water at Zoe with a force that left her face drenched in a demeaning humiliation.
"Who the hell are you to talk about my relationships? Who gave you the bloody damn rights to comment on my personal life? Know your place." He roared, his fury evident. The laptop met the unforgiving floor with a crash, causing her to flinch and sink to her knees.
This emotional outburst left her trembling, internally regretting her life choices. Fear gripped her as she realised the consequences of overstepping the line.
"I tolerated your shit and incompetence because of Seri, but you're just another cheap woman. You're fired. Get out !" His bark echoed through the office, sealing her fate.
"I-I'm sorry, Mr. Jeon! I promise I won't repeat. Please reconsider this time," she pleaded desperately.
"Get lost from my sight. I don't need any secretary. Pack your bags and leave right now," he shouted, his words sharp. She left the cabin in immense humiliation, tears streaming down her face.
Everyone in the office felt a heavy atmosphere as they witnessed the loud scolding, and they became more serious in their designated tasks.
Jungkook, overwhelmed with annoyance and frustration, ran his fingers through his hair. His gaze shifted to Yn's empty seat, and a lone tear escaped him, revealing a vulnerability beneath his tough and cold exterior.
Why do you still have such a hold on me?
The memories you keep mentioning, why are they so hazy and incomplete?
Who exactly are you to me, Ms. Carter?
Is it just my suffering, hatred and pain, or is there something more?
Why are you playing with my mind?