Episode 3

It was Forth day of kim couple in Busan.

"This is so beautiful." Jin said, admiring the place.

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" I am glad you like Like it sir. like this, there are more than four ponds in our village. This one here is closest to your house-it's right at the beginning of the village forest. During the monsoon season, the pond fills with different kinds of fish. Even now, many villagers come here to fish and sell them in the city market. When I was a child, many poor families survived because of this pond-it helped them feed their families," Jungkook explained.

"You know a lot about this place," Namjoon said, clearly impressed by Jungkook's knowledge.

"Yes, sir. It's the only place I truly know," Jungkook replied quietly.

"For someone who's never left his village, in just four days you've cooked us amazing food, acted as our guide, and even gave me a head massage when I had a headache. And yet, we've barely scratched the surface of who you are. You're an exceptional young man, Jungkook," Jin said with a warm smile.

"N-no... Sir. I've never had the chance to go anywhere. Appa always said there's no need for me to know about city life," Jungkook said, his voice trailing off as memories surfaced-like the time his grandma wanted to take him to visit a relative, but his father had refused.

"Jungkook, please don't take this the wrong way, but there's something we need to talk to you about," Namjoon said gently, exchanging a meaningful look with Jin.

"Let's head back to the house first." Jin said.

"Alright, sir. This way-it's the first route. Please follow me," Jungkook said, leading them back toward the Kim estate.

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At V Corporation...

Taehyung was in a meeting, discussing an ongoing project, when Mr. Choi suddenly said, "Mr. Kim, I heard you're still single. I hope you don't mind, but I'd like to introduce my daughter to you. She's very beautiful, well-mannered, and recently completed her graduation in business from a foreign university. If you're interested, I can set up a date for to-"

...

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"I prefer professionalism in my workplace, Mr. Choi," Taehyung interrupted sharply. "And if you think throwing your daughter at me will convince me to invest in your new project, you're mistaken. Your proposal clearly violates legal standards, and I will not support it."

"No, no, Mr. Kim! I just wanted to extend the offer because you're around the same age as my daughter. In Seoul, everyone hopes to build a relationship with the Kim family-I meant no offense, I want your well nothing more." Mr. Choi replied nervously, beads of sweat forming on his forehead.

"For my well-being, I have my parents. I don't need your concern. We're here for a business meeting, so keep it professional. If I hear you bring up your daughter again, I'll withdraw every single share I've invested in your project," Taehyung said coldly, delivering a firm and direct threat.

Mr. Choi paled. "Okay, Mr. Kim. That was my mistake."

"This meeting is dismissed," Taehyung declared and walked out of the conference room.

Back in his office, Taehyung sat in silence, staring at his phone. He re-read the message from his father, which said they'd be staying one more day. He frowned and dialed Namjoon's number.

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Meanwhile in Busan...

The Kim couple had just returned home with Jungkook when Namjoon's phone rang. Checking the screen, he said, "Taehyung's calling-I'll take this in the bedroom," and stepped away, leaving Jin and Jungkook in the living room.

"Hello, Taehyung," Namjoon answered.

"Hi, Appa. How are you and Mom? Why are you staying an extra day? Is something wrong? It's unusual for Mom not to check in on me..." Taehyung said, his concern barely masked.

"Oh Taehyung-ah, everything's fine," Namjoon replied quickly. "We're just enjoying our time with... nature," he added, nearly slipping Jungkook's name.

"With what, Dad?" Taehyung asked suspiciously.

"Nature!" Namjoon repeated with a nervous laugh. "Anyway, we'll be back on Saturday, don't worry. And look at you suddenly worried about us? Seems like roles are reversing."

"It would actually be great if Mom stopped worrying about me for once," Taehyung said with a sigh.

"Dream on, son. Just last night, he was talking about you again. And I'm his husband, yet he still loves you more!" Namjoon said dramatically.

"He loves all of us so much," Taehyung replied softly.

"That he does. Alright, I need to go-there's something important we have to take care of." Namjoon said.

"Okay, Dad. Take care. See you on Saturday."

"You too, son. Bye." Namjoon ended the call and returned to the living room.

"What took you so long, Joon? Jungkook has to return home in half an hour," Jin said, clearly annoyed.

"Sorry, love. Taehyung was worried. I was just assuring him everything's fine." Namjoon said, sitting beside Jin.

Jungkook, noticing their serious expressions, grew anxious. "Sir... did I do something wrong? Please tell me. I didn't mean to trouble you-whatever I did, I'll make sure it never happens again," he said, voice trembling, tears welling in his eyes as he scratched his index finger to control the shaking in his hands.

"What are you saying, Jungkook? You've done nothing wrong!" Jin said, alarmed. He stood up and gently guided Jungkook to sit between him and Namjoon. "You've made everything easier for us. Your company has been a joy. Please don't be scared."

Namjoon placed a comforting hand on Jungkook's back. "We know how your family treats you, Jungkook. We know your mother is no more, your grandmother-your only source of support-passed away last month. And we know how your father, stepmother, and stepsister treat you. We know everything."

Jungkook's eyes widened. He stood up in shock.

...

...

"Isn't it true?" Jin asked gently. "Tell us the truth. We want to help you. What they're doing is abuse. It's a crime. You deserve better."

"No... please don't," Jungkook said, falling to his knees. "Don't do anything to them. They didn't... it's not what you think. Please don't report them. I'll never ask for anything again, I promise. Just let me go," he begged, trembling.

"Jungkook, stop-please, get up," Jin said to Jungkook who was trying not to cry. "We're not here to punish anyone. We just want to help you. You're young, kind, and so pure-hearted. No one should live the way you've had to. We've seen the truth with our own eyes."

"But they're my only family," Jungkook said, breaking down in tears. "I don't have anyone else. Even if they hit me, even if they make me work all day... they're still all I've got."

Jin turned to Namjoon, his eyes glistening with tears. Namjoon gave him a subtle nod.

"Then... Can we become your family?" Jin asked gently, cupping Jungkook's face in both hands. "If I promised we wouldn't take any action against them, would you come with us? Would you leave this place and start over-with us?"

Jungkook blinked, confused. "What do you mean, sir? How can someone like me-just a poor villager, someone whose own family doesn't want him-how can I be a part of your family? Please don't joke with me. It hurts."

"We're not joking, Jungkook," Namjoon said with a warm smile. "In just a few days, you've shown us your heart, your kindness, your strength. You value family, loyalty, and love-more than most people I've ever met. And that's exactly the kind of person we hoped for... for our son."

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...

"M-Me? For your son?" Jungkook repeated, completely stunned. "I don't understand... What are you saying?"

"Jungkook, we are here to find someone who can marry our son... and you're exactly the one we've been searching for," Jin said with hope gleaming in his eyes. "Our son is truly a good man-he's just a bit different from others-but believe me, Jungkook, he will take care of you like no one ever has."

"What? Me... marry your son?" Jungkook was too stunned to respond properly.

"Yes, son. And if you agree, we won't press any charges against your parents. You'll have a new family-a real family. We'll show you what love truly means," Namjoon said, trying to ease his fears.

"I don't know sir... but promise me first you won't do anything to my family," Jungkook whispered, trembling at the thought of the police arresting his father and stepmother.

"Are you serious? You're agreeing?" Jin asked again, eyes sparkling with joy.

"Yes, sir. But... Appa and Aunty... who's going to make them understand? They'll kill me," Jungkook said, his voice breaking into sobs.

"Stop crying, Jungkook. When you go home, ask them to come here for lunch tomorrow. I'll handle everything," Jin said gently, wiping away Jungkook's tears and pulling him into a warm embrace.

Later that Evening...

Once Jungkook left, Namjoon turned to Jin, visibly agitated.

"Why did you invite those people here? I can't even bear to look at them after knowing what they've done to Jungkook. I'm glad I had the sense to ask Jackson to dig into his background. If I hadn't, we might have never known. And still, Jungkook is protecting them-why? He's letting himself be tortured and still trying to save them... I'm furious, Jin!" Namjoon said not understand his husband's purpose for the invitation.

Jin placed a calming hand on his husband's shoulder and said. "You need to see it from his side, Namjoon. Jungkook doesn't know what true family is. After enduring over 20 years of pain, those people are still the only 'family' he's ever known. Instead of running away or hating them, he wants to help them. That shows how much he values love, even if it was never returned. That's the strength of his heart."

Namjoon sighed heavily. "I know, Jinnie... I know. Still, it's hard for me not to want them punished."

"Wait and watch, Namjoon. First, let's make Jungkook our son-in-law. Then, we'll teach his so-called parents a lesson they'll never forget. And by then, Jungkook won't stand with them-I'll make sure of it," Jin said with a smirk.

"Oh, I missed that look, honey," Namjoon said, chuckling. "Time to put on a show."

"Tomorrow, you'll get your chance," Jin grinned.

The Next Day - Lunch at Kim Mansion

"You're really lucky, Kim sir. Your husband is an amazing cook!" Mr. Jeon praised, savoring another bite. "I've never tasted food this delicious. Thank you for inviting us."

"We're glad you're enjoying it. Please, have some more," Namjoon replied with a tight-lipped smile.

They were midway through lunch when Jin leaned toward Jungkook and whispered, "Jungkook, can you check the oven? I left some muffins in there."

Jungkook caught the cue and quietly left for the kitchen.

After some casual talk, Mr. Jeon cleared his throat. "I assume you invited us for a reason. Please, feel free to speak openly."

Namjoon leaned back, his tone sharp. "I admire someone who can read between the lines."

He continued, "Let me be direct. My husband and I want Jungkook's hand in marriage for our son, Taehyung."

Mr. and Mrs. Jeon froze, jaws dropping in shock.

"Excuse me? Could you repeat that?" Mrs. Jeon asked, disbelief in her voice.

"You heard right. We want Jungkook to marry our son," Jin said seriously.

Mr. Jeon let out a nervous laugh. "Surely you're joking. Why would someone like your son want someone like Jungkook?"

Namjoon's fake smile dropped. "Do we look like clowns to you?"

"No, no. My husband didn't mean it like that," Mrs. Jeon quickly interjected. "But... your son deserves someone better. Jungkook is lazy, clueless about the world beyond this village. Our daughter, Ji Yeun-she's beautiful, educated, and city-bred. She'd be a perfect match for your son."

Mr. Jeon chimed in, pulling out his phone to show photos. "Look at her-she's far superior to Jungkook."

Jin scoffed. "She's not even close to Jungkook's level. And we're not interested in your daughter. I'm sure she's just like you, Mrs. Jeon-a manipulative Gold digger ."

"How dare you!" Mr. Jeon roared.

Namjoon cut him off. "Let me be clear. We're only talking to you out of respect for Jungkook. If he weren't your son, you wouldn't even be allowed through our front gate."

Mrs. Jeon snarled. "Wait until we get home. I'm going to throw Jungkook out for real this time!"

"Jungkook! Come out right now!" Mr. Jeon shouted.

Jungkook came rushing in, only to be slapped hard across the face. Jin ran to him, shielding him.

"How dare you lay a hand on him? Do you think we don't have proof of your abuse? Try me-I'll have you both arrested!" Jin hissed.

"He's my son! I'll do what I want!" Mr. Jeon shouted.

"You just proved you don't deserve him," Namjoon said coldly.

"We don't want anything from you, and Jungkook will not marry your son!" Mrs. Jeon yelled, panic setting in.

"He's not going anywhere with you," Jin snapped, holding Jungkook protectively.

"Jungkook, come here! Or I'll throw you out myself. Those rich people won't stick around forever. Better come before it's too late," Mr. Jeon barked.

"Appa, please... listen to them. They're good people. Don't act like this," Jungkook begged.

"Shut up! I thought you'd finally be of some use to us, but no! You stole Ji Yeun's chance at a rich life. You're disgusting-just like your mother!" Mrs. Jeon spat venomously.

"Enough!" Jin snapped. "Where does your daughter even come into this? Jungkook is not going with you."

"Who are you to decide? Jungkook, come here!" Mr. Jeon grabbed him harshly.

"Please... please, sir, don't let them take me! They'll kill me this time. I swear I didn't do anything! I don't want to go with them!" Jungkook cried in agony, breaking down completely.

"You're not going anywhere!" Namjoon yelled, pushing Mr. Jeon away from Jungkook.

"See! I told you this boy was trouble. Look at how he manipulates them!" Mrs. Jeon said with a mocking laugh.

"If you don't want him, then fine!" Mr. Jeon screamed. "Give me back every Won I ever spent on you! Then I'll declare you dead to us forever!"

Mr. Jeon's words made jungkook stand frozen, his eyes wide with disbelief.

"I've never seen a father who would ask his own child for money-a child he was supposed to feed, nurture, and protect. This just shows how low you both can stoop. If money is all it takes for you to cut your disgusting ties with Jungkook, then fine. I'll give it to you."

Namjoon's voice was filled with cold fury as he threw one crore Won cheque straight at Mr. Jeon's face.

Mr. Jeon stood frozen, almost paralyzed, staring at the number on the cheque. Beside him, his wife stood dumbfounded, mouth agape. Their shock was written all over their faces.

"This much... you're giving us this much for that useless Jungkook?" Mrs. Jeon muttered after several moments of silence.

Namjoon stepped closer, voice low and threatening.

"Take your filthy selves and get out of my house. And listen carefully-never come near Jungkook again. If I ever find even a shadow of your family near him, I'll make you regret it. You have no idea how dangerous I can be. I'm letting you go only because Jungkook asked me not to take any legal action. You won't get this lucky again."

He turned to Jungkook and gently caressed his head, seeing the pain in the boy's eyes.

"Wait a second," Jin interrupted, his voice sharp.

He walked up to the Jeon couple, who looked at him with confusion-just before Jin slapped them both across the face.

"This is exactly what you deserve," Jin spat. Then he turned to Mrs. Jeon. "And you-don't you dare call yourself a woman or a mother. You've disgraced both names. Now get lost."

He pushed them out and slammed the door shut.

When he turned around, Jungkook was crouched on the floor, his head buried between his knees, crying silently.

"Everything's going to be okay now, son," Jin said softly, walking to him and kneeling down. "They're gone. They'll never disturb you again. This dark night is over-it's the beginning of many bright mornings. Come, let's go to the guest room. You need rest. Namjoon, please bring him some water."

Namjoon nodded and gently helped Jungkook upstairs.

"Lie down," Jin said, tucking him in with a blanket.

"Here, drink some water," Namjoon added, offering the glass. Jungkook took a few sips, Jin soon took the glass from him and placed it on the nightstand. Then he sat down beside him and held his hand.

"I know all of this is too much to handle," Jin said, gently patting his hand, "but believe us, son-we only want what's best for you. You're free now, away from that darkness. I know we made a decision without your concern, and we're sorry, but it was the only way. And once you will come with us and get to know Taehyung it's upon you to get married to our son or not"

"Yeah... And we will never force you for it.We're sorry for crossing the line already," Namjoon added, placing a supportive hand on Jin's shoulder.

"Please... don't apologize," Jungkook said through his tears, eyes filled with honesty. "You helped me. You gave them that much money... and they lost all my respect when they took it. Maybe I was never family to them-just a burden. I'm grateful to both of you for showing me the truth. And no matter what. I am willing to marry your son, I am promising you. Thank you so much for everything, sir..."

He choked on his words but he was sure what he was saying.

"I don't know how I'll ever repay you. Even if I thank you for the rest of my life, it still won't be enough. If by marrying your son I can make you happy I am ready for it"

"Don't say that, Jungkook even if you don't like our son and don't want to marry him we are still supporting you" Jin said warmly. "You're with us now-and that's what matters. You're family. And please don't call us strangers anymore."

"Yeah," Namjoon added with a smile. "You can call us whatever you're comfortable with, but we hope you'll see us as your family now."

"Call us mom and dad if it feels right to you," Jin said softly.

Jungkook hesitated, then whispered, "Okay... Mom... Dad."

The words felt foreign on his tongue-but comforting too. Something warm spread through his chest.

Jin and Namjoon shared a proud, knowing smile.

"Now rest," Jin said, standing. "We'll wake you up for dinner. And tomorrow will go back to our home" Jin said, like it's really a jungkook home.

After that they quietly stepped out after ensuring he was resting.

"We did it," Jin said, a smile breaking across his face. "I'm really happy, Joonie."

"Yeah," Namjoon replied. "And you were right. Jungkook is perfect for our Taehyung."

"I told you," Jin beamed. "Now let's go back home. I've had enough of this place after what happened today. I want to take Jungkook away from here."

"Okay. We'll take the first flight to Seoul," Namjoon agreed.

"Let's start packing."

With that, the two walked to their room, hearts lighter than they had been in days unaware of the Storm that had erupted in Jungkook here.

Inside the guest room-one born from the chaos of his own past-Jungkook sat alone, quietly trying to make sense of everything that had happened over the last few days. His heart ached, heavy with confusion, betrayal, and a strange glimmer of unfamiliar hope.

Slowly, he pulled out a small pendant from his pocket-a delicate heart-shaped locket. It was the last tangible memory he had of his mother. His grandmother had secretly given it to him when he was just a child, hiding it from his father, stepmother, and stepsister. Since then, Jungkook had guarded it like his life depended on it. Not once had he ever dared to let them see it.

After his grandmother passed away, he added her photograph inside the locket, placing it beside his mother's. It was all he had left of the two women who had truly loved him.

As he gently opened the pendant, his eyes welled up. Inside were two tiny photographs-one of his mother and the other of his grandmother. A bittersweet smile tugged at his lips as tears slipped down his cheeks. He held it close.

"I don't understand what's happening to me..." he whispered. "Kim sir... he's too kind. Just like a father I always dream, grandma, how you used to tell about father's love. And Jin sir... he makes me feel like I have a mother again. Mom, I know you loved me so much. Maybe that's why you sent them to me."

He paused, swallowing hard.

"I'm trying to be strong, but it hurts. Appa's words today... they broke something inside me that I only hoped I thought he would love me some day. How could he do this to me? I was his real son. And yet... he left me here... for money."

Jungkook took a deep, shaky breath and clutched the pendant tighter to his chest.

"I don't know what's going to happen next. I've lived in fear and silence for so long... but maybe... maybe this is the start of something different. Maybe someone can love me, Mom. Maybe I can finally have the life I used to dream about."

His voice dropped to a trembling whisper.

"Please, God... don't break me again. I've lived in the cold for too long-don't let this new light disappear. I don't know what tomorrow holds... but whatever it is... I'll try to hold on to it. Because even if it hurts... it's still better than being with them."

With those last words, Jungkook lay down, clutching the pendant tightly against his heart. Silent tears stained his pillow as he slowly drifted into a fragile sleep-unaware of what the next day would bring.

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