Episode 2

"Taehyung, your mom and I want to talk to you," Namjoon said, his tone calm but serious.

Jin was gently holding Namjoon's arm. Yoongi and Jimin sat nearby in the living room, their expressions attentive.

Taehyung walked in, adjusting his watch.

"What's going on, Dad? I'm running late for work," he said, eyebrows slightly furrowed in confusion.

"Just sit down for a moment, son," Jin said softly.

"Alright, Mom," Taehyung replied, taking a seat on the sofa.

Namjoon leaned forward slightly, concern etched across his face.

"Taehyung, your mom and I have been worried about you. You're turning 29 this year, and you've never introduced anyone to us, not even a friend or someone you're close to. Are you dating someone? Is there someone you care about? If so, you can tell us. We're your parents, we'll always be on your side."

Taehyung sighed. His expression was calm but distant.

"No, Dad. I don't have time for relationships. I'm not interested in that kind of thing right now."

Jin's voice was gentle, but there was a quiet urgency behind it.

"But life doesn't work that way forever, sweetheart. You need someone to walk beside you, someone who'll take care of you especially when we're no longer here."

Taehyung's brows drew together. "But I already have you and Appa. I don't need anyone else."

Jin gave him a small, understanding smile. "We'll always be here for you, but the love of a life partner is different, Taehyung. It brings a kind of peace and companionship that even parents can't provide. I used to feel the same way until I met your father."

Namjoon moved closer and took Taehyung's hand."Trust us, son. We want what's best for you. Don't mistake our concern for pressure. Your mother and I would like to help find someone for you someone who will love you deeply and sincerely."

Jin kneeled in front of him, holding his other hand."Tae, would you consider marrying someone we choose for you? We won't force anything you'd have the final say but we'd like the chance to help you."

"Yes, Tae. Mom and Dad are right," Yoongi spoke up calmly.

"Jimin and I will help them too. We'll make sure the person is truly right for you." Yoongi said.

"Please say yes, Taehyung," Jimin added, his voice full of hope.

Taehyung looked around at the people who loved him most. After a pause, he nodded."Fine. I'll agree to marry whoever you choose... but on one condition. I don't want someone from a wealthy background who only says yes because of my status or money. I despise shallow people like that. I want someone who values family who understands life beyond luxury. And... Please don't expect too much from me."

He stood up, grabbing his coat and office bag."Anyway, I'm late. I have to go."

"Have a good day, son," Jin said, watching him leave with a quiet smile.

Taehyung slid into his car and sighed deeply. "God only knows what's waiting for me now," he muttered as he started the engine.

Back in the living room, Jin wrapped his arms around Namjoon, his voice trembling with emotion. "Nam... he said yes. We can finally do something for him. I'm so relieved."

Namjoon returned the hug, smiling warmly."I told you, he just needed time. He trusts us."

Yoongi stepped forward, clearing his throat."Sorry to cut the moment short, Mom, Dad... but something important came up. Our Busan property has attracted a serious buyer interested in Mom's old house. But I was thinking... Maybe you two should visit before deciding. It's in a peaceful village, away from the city. And considering Taehyung doesn't want someone rich or superficial, Busan might be the perfect place to find someone genuine."

Jin's eyes lit up with recognition.

"Oh, Yoonie, that's actually a brilliant idea. I completely forgot about that house. After graduation, my parents and I moved to Seoul, and your grandparents transferred the house to my name. After I married your father, I never went back. It was my grandparents' home and it holds so many memories."

Jin turned to Namjoon. "Let's not sell it. Tell the buyer we've changed our minds."

"I'll call him right away and turn down the offer," Yoongi said.

"Thank you, son," Jin said with a smile.

"No need to thank me, Mom. I just want Tae to have someone who truly sees him," Yoongi replied.

Jimin perked up, visibly excited. "When are you going? I want to come with you!"

Jin smiled and cupped his cheek. "I'd love for you to join us, Jimin-ah, but someone needs to stay here. You know how your husband and Taehyung are? They forget to eat, sleep, or rest when no one reminds them. I need you to take care of them."

Jimin nodded with a proud grin. "Don't worry, Mom. I'll take care of your sons like you would."

Namjoon looked between them all and declared, "Alright then it's settled. We're leaving for Busan tomorrow."

----

In Jeon Household A Cruel Decision..

In another part of the Jeon household, Jungkook was quietly occupied with his sketches, completely unaware that destiny was preparing to turn his life upside down.

That evening, as the family gathered for dinner, Mrs. Jeon casually brought up a conversation that would change everything.

"I heard the Kim Mansion outside the village has been sold," she said while passing the soup. "New people are moving in soon. We should offer them our farm produce so they might become regular buyers."

"You're right," Mr. Jeon replied. "Let them settle in, and then I'll go deliver it myself."

"Take Jungkook with you," Mrs. Jeon added quickly, her tone calculated. "If they decide to keep him as a maid, we could earn some money. He does nothing all day but eat. It's about time he becomes useful."

Mr. Jeon hesitated. "But... Jungkook? Do you really think they'll take him?"

"I'm telling you, rich people always want more house staff," she insisted, a cold smile forming on her lips. "He could earn well for us. Just imagine!"

Mr. Jeon chuckled darkly. "You're always so clever. That's why I love you, darling. And you're right we've been feeding him for over twenty years for nothing."

Little did they know, their daughter Ji-Yeun was not interested in food, just pretending to eat, overhearing everything. With a wicked smirk, she quietly walked away.

Jungkook's Room - Innocence Meets Reality.

Jungkook was sitting on the floor of his small room, flipping through his worn-out sketchbook, his only treasure. He softly smiled as he drew a beautiful flower, remembering how his grandmother had bought him that book long ago. His father had been furious, scolding her for "wasting money on useless things."

As he carefully added color to the petals, he suddenly felt someone watching him. He looked up to see his stepsister Ji-Yeun approaching, her smile laced with cruelty.

"Oh, Jungkook, your lovely big sister has some amazing news," she said, her eyes glinting with mischief.

"W-what is it, noona?" Jungkook asked, hopeful that his father might finally be taking him somewhere.

"You know the Kim Mansion outside the village? It's been sold. Mom's telling Dad to take you there tomorrow. They're hoping the new owners will hire you as a maid."

Jungkook's expression changed instantly. "Noona... please tell me you're joking... Why would Appa agree to that?"

"You're such a crybaby," Ji-Yeun sneered. "They're not throwing you out. They're just finally making some money off the food you've eaten for twenty years. You should be grateful to my mother. If I were her, I would've thrown you out a long time ago."

With that, she stormed out, leaving Jungkook trembling and alone, tears rolling down his cheeks as he silently sobbed into his sketchbook.

----

Seoul - Taehyung's Long Night

Back in Seoul, Taehyung was still at the office long after everyone had left. His desk was covered with files for the next day's presentation.

His phone buzzed, Hoseok was calling.

"Hello?" Taehyung answered, putting the call on speaker.

"Taehyung, you're still at the office? Jin uncle has been trying to reach you. He's worried," Hoseok said.

"I'm reviewing the presentation for tomorrow's meeting," Taehyung replied.

"Can't someone else do it? You're still here past midnight."

"I can't delegate this. It's too important, and the others won't be as careful. And you already have enough on your plate, hyung."

"Alright... I'll talk to mom and calm him down."

Before Hoseok could continue, Taehyung ended the call and immediately dialed his mom, who had called him ten times within the past hour.

"Hello, Mom," he said softly.

"Taehyung! Where are you? We talked about this, Why are you still at work?!" Jin scolded.

"Mom, I'm coming. Please don't worry. I'll be home in thirty minutes."

"You better! Your dad and I are leaving for Busan tomorrow morning, and I want to see you before we go."

"Busan? Why suddenly?"

"We're going to check on my grandparents' old house. Someone's interested in buying it, but I don't want to sell it. We are going to check in that place. We'll be gone for three days."

"Okay, Mom. What time is your flight?" Taehyung asked.

"7:00 AM sharp. And you're dropping us off at the airport. Don't even think of sending a driver."

"Got it. I'll be home soon. Rest now you'll need it for the trip."

"Alright, baby. Come home soon. Good night."

"Good night, Mom."

Morning - Airport Goodbye

Taehyung stood at the airport with his parents, helping them with their luggage.

Namjoon hugged him tightly, followed by Jin.

"Take care of yourself, Tae," Jin said.

"Don't overwork. I asked Jimin to keep an eye on you. Be nice to him!"

"Don't worry, Mom. I'll manage. And you call me the moment you reach Busan, alright?"

Namjoon ruffled his hair. "We will. And good luck with your meeting!"

With final hugs and waves, they left. Taehyung turned and headed straight to the office.

Kim Mansion - A Nostalgic Return

In Busan, the Kim couple arrived at the old family mansion.

Yoongi had sent his men a day earlier to clean the place with help from local villagers.

"This place is stunning," Namjoon said in awe. "Why didn't you ever tell me it looked like this?"

"I'm shocked," Jin smiled. "I used to come here every summer with my parents... but after I started dating you, I never came back."

"Well, it's beautiful."

"Yoongi's men did a great job. The villagers will probably arrive by afternoon with welcome gifts."

"They always did that when we came here. My father used to hire them during our stays and paid them fairly," Jin said, lost in old memories.

"Let's take a nap before they arrive," Namjoon suggested.

"Good idea" Jin said.

Jeon Household .

Back in the village, Mrs. Jeon was busy preparing gift baskets.

"Do it properly, Jungkook! I want everything perfect. No one should reach there before your father, We can't lose this opportunity. This money will help with Ji-Yeun's wedding. You owe us at least this much." Mr. Jeon said.

"Don't mess this up. Those people are rich. One mistake and we'll have to pay for it," Mr. Jeon warned, glaring.

"I understand, Appa," Jungkook replied quietly.

"You better. And Honey, it's almost lunchtime you should go." Mr. Jeon said letting her husband know.

"Alright. Jungkook, pick up the gift basket and come with me," Mr. Jeon said, heading out to start the truck.

Jungkook, heart heavy and hands trembling, followed unknowingly walking toward the beginning of a completely new chapter of his life.

"Jungkook, listen to me carefully. Do exactly what they say, keep them happy, and don't you dare complain about anything to them," Mrs. Jeon warned coldly.

"If you mess up this time, I swear I'll throw you out of this house."

"Don't forget to cook and clean properly for them," Ji Yeun added sharply.

Jungkook silently nodded, climbed into his father's truck, and headed toward the Kim Mansion, situated just outside their village.

Knock knock.

"Joon, someone's at the door! I'm in the middle of making lunch," Jin called from the kitchen.

"I'll get it, honey," Namjoon replied, walking over and opening the main door to find two people standing respectfully.

"Hello, how may I help you?" Namjoon asked warmly.

Both visitors gave a slight bow, and Namjoon politely returned the gesture.

"I'm Jeon Suk-chin, and this is my son Jungkook. We live in a nearby village. We've come to welcome you and brought a small gift," Mr. Jeon said,

handing over a carefully arranged basket.

Namjoon smiled and invited them in.

"Joon, what's taking you so long? " Jin began but stopped mid-sentence when he saw a strikingly beautiful young boy sitting nervously beside an older man, across from where his husband was seated.

Jungkook stood up and bowed to Jin,.. nodded with a smile.

"Jin, they're from the village nearby. They brought us a welcome gift. Come sit," Namjoon said with a cheerful tone.

"Oh, thank you for the gift but really, there was no need to go through the trouble," Jin said with polite gratitude.

"It's our pleasure," Mr. Jeon replied humbly.

"You're guests in our village, after all. This mansion had been abandoned for years. I'm glad someone finally bought it. The previous owners didn't care much for it, such is the way with some rich folks."Jin's expression turned slightly cold.

"We didn't buy this mansion. This place has belonged to my grandparents for decades," Jin said.

"Because of our hectic life in the city, we hadn't been able to visit until now. We've never sold it, nor do we intend to. But thank you for your concern."

Namjoon let out an awkward chuckle, sensing the tension, and his gaze shifted to Jungkook, who had been staring at the floor the entire time.

"How old are you, Jungkook?" Namjoon asked, hoping to ease the atmosphere. The question drew Jin's attention toward the boy.

"Yes, son, tell us why are you so quiet?" Jin asked softly, his voice filled with concern.

"He's 21," Mr. Jeon answered quickly. "And actually, your question reminds me there's something I wanted to ask you regarding him."

The Kim couple exchanged puzzled glances.

"Are you insane?" Namjoon snapped, his tone suddenly stern.

"Who in their right mind sends their own child to work as a servant for complete strangers? He's barely an adult! He should be in college, not working like this. What kind of father are you?"

"Sir, I think you're misunderstanding me. Let me explain" Mr. Jeon tried, but Jin cut him off sharply.

"Explain? What is there to explain? I feel terrible for this poor boy. Telling your own son to become a maid? How heartless can you be?" Jin said, rising from his seat.

"I've heard enough. Get out of my house. And take your gift with you."

He turned to walk back into the kitchen when suddenly, a gentle grip held onto his sleeve. Surprised, he turned around to find Jungkook, who had just let go and now stood bowing deeply in front of him.

"Please, sir, don't be angry at my appa. He was only trying to help me," Jungkook pleaded, folding his palms together.

"I want to work. I know how to cook and clean. Please allow me to help while you're staying here. I need this job."

Jin's expression softened. He gently stopped the boy from bowing again.

"Alright, I'll let you work here," Jin said slowly.

"But only on one condition you must be honest with us. We're only staying for three or four days. If we like your work, we'll consider making you the caretaker of this place. But please, don't beg like that again. You're too young to carry such burdens. You should be in college. Life shouldn't be this cruel to someone like you."

"Thank you, sir. You don't know how much this means to me. I'll be forever grateful," Jungkook said, bowing repeatedly.

"It's alright. Go with your father now and come tomorrow," Jin instructed gently. "You can start by showing us around the village and the market. That's your only task for now."

"Thank you, sir. Please accept the gift basket, I made myself. I hope you'll accept it."

"Alright, kid. I'm keeping it only because you asked," Jin said, ge

ntly patting Jungkook's head.

Afterward, Jungkook and Mr. Jeon returned to their village.

"Why did you agree to let him work here, Jin?" Namjoon asked once they were alone.

"Didn't you see how greedy his father is? He's using that poor boy."

"I didn't do it for the father, I did it for the boy," Jin said softly.

"Didn't you see the look in his eyes, Joon-ah? That wasn't just sadness... it was hopelessness. I've raised two sons myself. But even in Taehyung's worst moments, I've never seen eyes that were broken. That boy is silently screaming for help." Jin said.

Namjoon sighed and wrapped an arm around Jin's shoulder. "If you want, I'll ask Jackson to look into their background."

"That would be helpful," Jin replied,

resting his head on Namjoon's chest.

"And maybe... maybe we should stay here a little longer."

"As you command, my highness," Namjoon teased, making Jin laugh softly and give his arm a playful smack.

"Enough of your sweet talk. Let me call Taehyung, He has an important meeting today," Jin said, dialing his son's number.

That night, Jungkook lay on his bed with an unusual sense of peace. For the first time in a long while, he felt hope stir in his chest. He remembered how it felt when Jin had caressed his head tender, warm... something he hadn't felt since his grandmother passed away.

Or maybe even more than that.

In just a few seconds, Jin had given him a feeling he hadn't known he craved so deeply a mother's touch.

And Jungkook wanted to feel it again.

(Please like, vote and comment and try to ignore my mistake I am learning 💜)

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