32

Yoongi and Mina stepped inside, shaking off the cold as you shut the door behind them.

"Where's Jungkook?" Mina asked, already kicking off her shoes.

"And the parasite," Yoongi muttered, earning a snort from you.

You sighed, crossing your arms. "They're working out together."

Mina raised an eyebrow. "Together?"

You nodded, remembering the way Duri had asked Jungkook if he wanted to work out and how he immediately smiled and agreed. It left a sour taste in your mouth, but you had to remind yourself not to overthink.

Yoongi scoffed. "Hilarious. She's been here what, two days? And she's already clinging to him like a lost puppy."

Mina plopped onto the couch, crossing her legs. "I mean, I don't know about you, but I'd pay to see her try to squat a weight half of what Jungkook lifts."

You rolled your eyes, sitting beside her. "Can we not picture them together?"

Yoongi hummed, plopping down on your other side. "Or we could picture a plan to get rid of her."

Mina grinned. "Now that's a conversation I wanna have."

As the three of you huddled together, whispering about possible ways to get rid of Duri without looking obvious, you suddenly heard footsteps approaching.

The door swung open, and in walked Jungkook and Duri, both slightly sweaty from their workout.

You all jumped, eyes wide like deer caught in headlights.

Jungkook narrowed his eyes. "What are you guys talking about?"

Mina, thinking fast, blurted out, "Uh—pizza toppings!"

Yoongi groaned. "Really?"

Duri tilted her head, amused. "Pizza toppings?"

You mentally cursed, nodding way too fast. "Yeah! You know, like, uh... if pineapple belongs on pizza or not."

Jungkook raised an eyebrow. "Since when do any of you care about that?"

Yoongi crossed his arms. "Since always."

Mina nodded. "We take this very seriously."

Duri giggled. "Well, I think pineapple is fine on pizza."

Mina's face twisted in fake disgust. "Yeah, okay, let's kick her out—"

You smacked her leg, and she cleared her throat. "I mean... interesting opinion."

Jungkook looked between you three suspiciously, but thankfully, he didn't push. "Right. Well, I'm gonna shower."

As he walked past, Duri turned to you with a small smirk. "Try not to talk too much about me while I'm gone."

You clenched your jaw, but before you could say anything, she winked and followed Jungkook out.

Mina stared after her, jaw dropped. "Okay, nope. I take it back. We're getting rid of her tonight."

Yoongi leaned back against the couch, shaking his head with a chuckle. "Man, I thought Suri was bad, but at least she eventually calmed down. This one? Duri? She's on a whole different level of delusional."

Mina scoffed, throwing her hands up. "Right?! At least Suri didn't have the audacity to wink at you like she owns the place. That girl is bold. Too bold."

You sighed, rubbing your temples. "And the worst part is that Jungkook doesn't even see it. He just thinks she's his long-lost bestie catching up."

Yoongi smirked. "Yeah, well, I bet if he saw the way she was looking at you when he wasn't around, he'd get the picture real quick."

Mina folded her arms. "So, what's the move? We could just lock her in a closet until her flight back—"

"Not helpful," you deadpanned, though the idea was tempting.

Yoongi exhaled. "Look, you gotta tell him. If you wait too long, she's just gonna keep pushing boundaries. And by the time he realizes, it might be too late."

You nodded, knowing he was right. But the question was... how were you going to bring this up without looking jealous or paranoid?

You sighed, running a hand through your hair as the three of you sat in deep thought. There had to be a way to get Duri out of the picture without making it obvious.

Mina suddenly perked up, snapping her fingers. "Wait! How about we set her up on a date?"

Yoongi raised a brow. "A date? With who? Satan?"

You choked on a laugh while Mina rolled her eyes. "No, dumbass. I mean, if she's so amazing and fun, then let's see if she'll focus on someone else. Maybe she's just lonely and clinging onto Jungkook because he's familiar."

You tilted your head, considering it. "That... actually might work."

Yoongi shrugged. "It's not the worst idea. But who's the poor soul we're throwing into the fire?"

Mina smirked. "I might know a guy."

You shook your head almost immediately. "No. If Duri is really going after Jungkook, there's no way she'd be interested in some random guy. She's set on him."

Mina groaned, flopping back on the couch. "Ugh, you're right. She's too far gone for that."

Yoongi sighed, rubbing his temples. "Then we need a different plan. Something that makes her back off without making Jungkook think we're just being jealous."

You huffed, crossing your arms. "Yeah, because the last thing I need is him thinking I'm overreacting when that girl is practically glued to his side."

Mina clicked her tongue in thought. "Okay... then what if we make Jungkook see it for himself? Like, really see it?"

Yoongi smirked slightly. "Now that sounds like a plan."

You frowned, leaning forward. "But how is he going to see it if he already brushes it off? He just thinks that's her 'natural self.'" You made air quotes, rolling your eyes. "At this point, I feel like she could sit in his lap, and he'd still be like, 'That's just Duri being Duri.'"

Mina scoffed. "Ugh, men are so dumb sometimes."

Yoongi chuckled. "That's why we make him really see it. We push her into a situation where she can't hide behind the whole 'best friend' excuse. Something undeniable."

Mina nodded eagerly. "Yeah! Like, what if we get her to say something when she thinks no one is listening? Or—" she gasped dramatically "—what if we make her jealous?"

You raised a brow. "Jealous? Of me?"

Mina smirked. "Of course. If she's after Jungkook, seeing him give you all his attention is gonna drive her crazy. And maybe—just maybe—she'll slip up."

Yoongi nodded in approval. "It's risky... but it might just work."

You sighed, crossing your arms. "How am I supposed to get Jungkook to give me all his attention when his eyes are glued to Duri half the time?" You frowned, feeling frustration bubble up inside you.

Mina tapped her chin. "Hmm... we need something big, something that makes him focus on you without even thinking about it."

Yoongi leaned back, smirking. "You are pregnant. Use that."

You blinked. "What? How?"

Mina gasped dramatically. "Oh my gosh, yes! Play the pregnancy card! Be extra needy, extra affectionate, make him do everything for you." She grinned mischievously. "Duri will hate it."

Yoongi shrugged. "Or, you know, just actually remind him that you are his priority, not her."

You sat back, thinking. It wasn't a bad idea. If Duri was really trying to wedge herself between you and Jungkook, then making him focus on you would show if her behavior changed. If she got annoyed or jealous, you'd know for sure.

Mina clapped her hands. "Okay, let's test it out. Starting now, you're the most clingy, affectionate girlfriend in the world."

You hesitated before nodding. "Alright... let's see if this works."

As if on cue, Duri walked down the stairs, a bright smile on her face. She looked directly at Yoongi and Mina, introducing herself with a little too much enthusiasm.

"Hi! I'm Duri. Jungkook's best friend," she said, emphasizing the last two words like it was some grand title.

Mina plastered on a fake smile. "Ohhh, Duri," she dragged out the name dramatically before side-eyeing you. "We've heard about you."

Yoongi, never one to hide his bluntness, simply nodded. "Yeah, a lot."

Duri giggled, completely missing the tension in the room. "Well, it's nice to finally meet you both! Jungkook's talked about you guys before."

Mina raised a brow. "Oh, has he?"

Before Duri could answer, you decided to make your move. Leaning into Jungkook, who had just joined the group, you wrapped your arms around his waist and rested your head against his chest.

"I missed you," you mumbled sweetly, looking up at him with wide eyes.

Jungkook blinked in surprise before chuckling, wrapping his arms around you in return. "I was only gone for a bit, baby."

You heard Mina stifle a laugh behind you, while Duri's expression faltered for just a second before she quickly recovered.

"Oh, you two are so cute," Duri said with a forced smile. "Jungkook never used to be this soft before."

You smirked to yourself. Oh, this is going to be fun.You pulled Jungkook down onto the couch, settling yourself comfortably on his lap with your knees resting on his thighs. Your face found its usual place against his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. His arms instinctively wrapped around you, holding you close.

"So," you murmured, tilting your head up to look at him. "Do you and Duri have any plans today?"

Jungkook hummed, glancing over at her briefly before shrugging. "I don't know yet."

Duri, sitting across from you both, quickly nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we haven't decided. Maybe we'll just see where the day takes us."

You resisted the urge to roll your eyes. Of course.

Mina, ever the instigator, smirked. "Well, Y/n's been feeling kinda off lately. Maybe you should stay with her today, Jungkook."

Jungkook immediately looked down at you, concern flashing across his face. "Are you okay? You should've told me."

You sighed, letting out a dramatic little breath as you nuzzled further into him. "I just feel better when you're around."

Duri shifted uncomfortably in her seat, forcing a small chuckle. "Oh, um... well, that's totally understandable. But Kookie and I haven't really spent much time together yet, so—"

Yoongi, who had been quietly observing, suddenly spoke up. "He lives with Y/n. I think she has the right to keep him for one day, don't you think?"

Duri faltered. "Well... I guess."

Jungkook, completely oblivious to the tension, ran a hand down your back soothingly. "If you want me to stay, baby, I will."

You smiled against his chest, feeling Duri's stare burning into you. "I do."

Mina bit her lip to hide her laughter, while Yoongi just sipped his drink, looking way too entertained.

You tilted your head up, locking eyes with Jungkook, who was already looking down at you. Without hesitation, you leaned in and pressed a long, heated kiss against his lips.

Jungkook stiffened for a second, clearly caught off guard, but soon melted into it, his hands tightening around your waist as he kissed you back. The moment stretched longer than expected, the warmth between you growing—until he suddenly pulled away, clearing his throat, a little flustered.

He glanced around, realizing Mina, Yoongi, and Duri were all watching. "Uh..." he chuckled awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck.

Mina was grinning like a Cheshire cat, Yoongi just raised a brow in amusement, but Duri... her expression had completely dropped. The fake smile was gone, replaced by something almost unreadable.

"Well, damn," Yoongi muttered, sipping his drink. "That was something."

Mina nodded dramatically. "Yeah, Y/n, you good? That was straight out of a romance movie."

You smirked, settling back against Jungkook's chest, feeling pretty satisfied. "What? I just missed my boyfriend."

Jungkook let out a soft laugh, wrapping his arms around you again, but Duri's silence was loud.

As everyone continued to chat, you stayed close to Jungkook, your arms wrapped around him, making sure he couldn't pull away. You rested your head against his shoulder, subtly shifting your weight to make it clear you weren't planning to let go anytime soon. Every now and then, you'd glance up at him with a small smile, silently urging him to return your affections, just to let the others see how much he cared.

Jungkook shifted uncomfortably at first, trying to keep a calm face, but the subtle pressure of your actions was getting to him. He would let his hand rest lightly on your back or brush a strand of hair out of your face, a small gesture that didn't go unnoticed by anyone, especially Duri, who was now observing the two of you with a tight smile.

Mina and Yoongi seemed entertained by the situation, occasionally teasing you both, but you could feel Duri's eyes on you, her gaze a little too sharp. You could tell she was trying to hide her discomfort, but you weren't going to let it bother you. If anything, you were determined to show her exactly where Jungkook's focus lay.

Jungkook's hand found its way to your waist again, pulling you just a bit closer, almost as if he couldn't help but respond to your subtle cues. You looked up at him with a small smile, and he returned it, albeit a bit awkwardly, his attention still split between you and Duri, who was now clearly stewing.

"Alright, alright," Yoongi broke the silence, glancing between you and Jungkook. "Can you two not be so obvious? You're giving the rest of us second-hand embarrassment."

You grinned, feeling a little victorious, but your eyes flicked to Duri, noting her tight jaw and the way she was trying to keep herself composed.

Duri then spoke up, asking if she could speak to Jungkook outside privately.The words hit you like a sudden cold breeze, and you couldn't mask the unease that crept up. Duri's request sounded innocent enough, but the way she said it, paired with her persistent smile, made your heart flutter uneasily.

Jungkook gave you a friendly smile, brushing a hand against yours before letting go and walking toward the door with her. You forced a smile in return, but inside, something felt off. You watched as they stepped outside, and the silence that followed felt louder than it should've.

Mina and Yoongi exchanged a quick glance, sensing your discomfort. Mina leaned in, her voice low, "You good?"

You nodded, but your gaze never left the door. "Yeah, just... wondering what they're talking about."

"Don't overthink it," Yoongi added with a raised brow. "They're just talking, right? They've been friends for a long time."

"I guess," you murmured, still feeling a tug of worry deep inside you. Every minute felt like an hour. It didn't help that Duri and Jungkook seemed so... comfortable with each other. She was always there, always smiling at him, always pulling his attention.

Trying to distract yourself, you joined in with the conversation, but the back of your mind kept drifting back to the conversation happening just outside.

You all laugh, the mood lightening as you recall the scene that had unfolded just moments ago. Despite the tension you were feeling, it was hard not to laugh at how awkward Duri looked when she realized you weren't backing down, and how she'd tried so hard to cover it up with that forced smile.

"Honestly, her face was priceless," Mina giggled, "I thought she was going to cry when you clung onto Jungkook like that. I mean, you were pretty obvious, but it worked."

You couldn't help but chuckle, even if the situation still made you uneasy. "I had to, though," you said, shaking your head. "It was for a good cause."

Yoongi snorted, leaning back on the couch. "You know, if I didn't know any better, I'd think you two were actually competing for his attention. But I get it. That girl's got some nerve."

The thought of Duri being so bold while Jungkook was completely oblivious had you laughing, but it didn't take away the uneasiness in your stomach. You were definitely in this weird position where the girl made you feel like you had to defend your relationship, even though Jungkook hadn't noticed anything out of the ordinary.

"Whatever happens, we've got your back," Mina said with a reassuring smile. "Just don't let her get to you. You're his, and no one can change that."

You nodded, grateful for their support. The laughter helped, but the nagging worry at the back of your mind was still there, even if you were trying not to let it take over.

Jungkook walks back into the room, his eyes scanning the group briefly before he grabs his car keys from the table. "Duri needs help picking some things up, so I'll be back," he announces, his voice a little softer as he avoids looking at you directly for too long.

Before he can leave, you stand up, stepping close to him. Without a word, you pull him in for a kiss. It's slow at first, but soon your lips are more demanding, your hands slipping around his neck as you tug him down on top of you, pulling him onto the couch.

Jungkook is caught off guard, his body hovering above you, his arms supporting him, but he doesn't pull away. For a moment, the world outside of the two of you fades, and it's just the heat between you both. His lips press against yours eagerly, but after a moment, he pulls away, his face flushed red, his breath shaky. "I-I'll be back," he stammers, his eyes flickering between you and the others.

His cheeks are pink, and you can tell he's feeling the weight of the moment, embarrassed by the intensity of the kiss in front of everyone. "I'll just go help Duri," he says, turning to Yoongi and Mina quickly.

You give him a playful smile, letting your hands linger on his chest for a moment longer. "Hurry back," you whisper, your voice filled with unspoken meaning.

Jungkook quickly says his goodbyes to Yoongi and Mina, still looking a little flustered, before grabbing his keys and heading out the door, leaving you with a smug grin on your face, knowing you've successfully turned the tension up a notch.

As Jungkook leaves the room, Mina turns to you with a playful grin, noticing the flustered expression on his face. "Was he... blushing?" she asks, her voice filled with teasing curiosity.

You all burst into laughter, clearly seeing the same thing. "Oh, we definitely saw that," you say, barely able to hold back your amusement.

Yoongi, shaking his head and laughing, adds, "Where the heck did you get that bold confidence?" His tone is half-amused, half-impressed.

You shrug with a smirk. "A little bit of confidence goes a long way," you say, feeling smug about your little victory. Mina nods approvingly, and Yoongi raises an eyebrow, clearly impressed by your boldness.

You hoped Duri got the hint that Jungkook was yours. You weren't one for arguments or violence, preferring peace over confrontation, but at that moment, it seemed like it was the only way to make her see that boundary. You tried to stay calm, knowing that pushing too hard might cause more problems, but you couldn't help the lingering feeling that she didn't fully respect your space. For now, though, you had to trust Jungkook's judgment and hope things would settle down.

You laugh, enjoying Yoongi's teasing, as he jokingly points out how Jungkook's changed. "He's getting shy now," Yoongi says, exaggerating the difference between the confident man he is online and the slightly bashful guy when he's around you. "I guess you've overpowered him," Yoongi adds with a smirk.

You can't help but grin, glancing toward the door where Jungkook had just left. "I didn't mean to, but he's just so cute when he gets like that," you reply with a playful shrug. Yoongi laughs and Mina teases that Jungkook has finally met his match in you, and you can't help but smile, feeling a little proud of the bond you two share.

Mina's tone shifts slightly, and you can tell she's a bit concerned. "You know, Duri was able to get Jungkook to leave with her so fast, right? Like, she asked him to do something, and bam, he was out the door. That's a little issue, don't you think? Everything she asks him to do, he just does it."

You pause, letting her words sink in. It's true—Jungkook had been quick to leave with her, and his willingness to go along with whatever she said bothered you more than you expected. You hadn't wanted to overthink it, but hearing it pointed out like that made you feel uneasy.

"Yeah, it's strange," you admit, your thoughts swirling. "It's like he's always been that way with her. But... I don't know, I trust him." You try to sound confident, but the doubt creeps in.

Yoongi, sensing your discomfort, adds, "It's normal to feel uneasy about stuff like that. But you have to trust him and have a conversation when you're ready. Maybe he doesn't even realize how it looks."

You nod, grateful for Yoongi's reassurance, but the feeling still lingers. You just hoped things wouldn't spiral out of control.

You all shifted the conversation, trying to steer away from the awkward tension surrounding Duri and instead focused on more positive things. The topic naturally turned to the baby, and the room filled with warmth as you all shared fond memories of your pregnancy journey. You remembered the first time you felt the baby kick, how it felt like a tiny secret between you and your little one, and the excitement that slowly built up as the months went by. Mina laughed, recalling how you had spent hours debating baby names, while Yoongi teased about how much you'd changed since becoming pregnant—more sentimental, more attached to the idea of your little family growing.

You couldn't help but smile as you rubbed your belly absentmindedly, the baby kicking in response, as if it could hear the conversation. Every little movement was a reminder of how much was about to change. You were just a few short weeks away from becoming a parent, and the reality of it all was starting to hit hard. The nursery was already ready, a calm, peaceful space with soft colors and everything you could need for the baby. The house itself had transformed, with every room reflecting the excitement and preparations for the new addition.

It was hard to believe that in less than 10 weeks, you'd be holding your little one in your arms, feeling their warmth against your chest. The excitement mixed with a little bit of nervousness, knowing that life was about to change completely. But with Jungkook by your side, you knew you'd be ready. The love between you two, and the thought of becoming parents together, made everything seem a little less daunting. You were both ready for the next chapter—whatever it may bring.

You looked at Mina and Yoongi, both smiling and sharing their thoughts on the baby, their joy contagious. You couldn't help but feel incredibly lucky to have such a supportive circle around you. The thought of the challenges to come didn't seem so overwhelming with your friends and Jungkook there with you. You smiled, a soft and content smile, knowing that the best part of this journey was yet to come.

The day had come to an end, and the evening sky was slowly darkening, with the soft glow of the stars beginning to appear. You stood in the kitchen, the soft hum of the fridge and the quiet atmosphere of the house surrounding you. Yoongi and Mina had just left not too long ago, and as the door closed behind them, a calm settled over the house.

You were lost in thought, rinsing a cup that had been left on the counter, your mind replaying the events of the day—how Yoongi had teased Jungkook, how Mina had expressed her concerns about Duri, and how, despite everything, you felt a sense of peace when you looked at your growing belly and thought about the little life inside you.

The house felt quiet now, almost too quiet. The tension surrounding Duri was still lingering, but you were trying not to let it consume you. Instead, you focused on the things that truly mattered—your relationship with Jungkook, your growing family, and the future that awaited.

You finished cleaning up the kitchen, wiped down the counters, and sighed, feeling a sudden wave of exhaustion wash over you. You were tired, but it was the kind of tired that felt earned—productive, peaceful, and a little bit nostalgic as you thought about the future.

As you dried your hands on the towel, you heard the sound of footsteps approaching. Jungkook's familiar voice echoed from the hallway, and you couldn't help but smile a little. The quiet had been nice, but now that he was home, it felt right.

He appeared in the doorway, his presence instantly comforting, and you could see the way his eyes softened when he saw you standing there. You didn't need to say anything—just being in the same space felt like enough.

You walk up to Jungkook, wrapping your arms around him in a warm embrace. Pulling away slightly, you look up at him with a hint of concern. "Where's Duri?" you ask softly, your voice betraying a bit of unease.

"She's upstairs in the room, putting her bags down," he replies, his tone calm.

You give a small nod, trying to push the discomfort aside, but it's hard to ignore the nagging feeling in your chest. "Okay," you mutter under your breath.

Without saying much more, you guide him to the chair and gently make him sit down, your hands holding his as you stand in front of him. There's a quiet pause before you meet his gaze. "Jungkook," you start carefully, "I need you to be honest with me. Are you sure everything's okay with Duri staying here?" Your voice is steady, but the concern is evident in your eyes.

Jungkook looks up at you, his expression softening. "I promise, Y/n, everything's fine. She's just a friend," he reassures, his grip tightening around your hands.

You sigh, trying to calm the racing thoughts in your head. "I just... I don't want anything to change between us, especially now with everything going on. The baby, us..." You trail off, unsure of how to fully express your unease.

He stands up, pulling you into a gentle hug and placing a soft kiss on the top of your head. "Nothing is going to change, I swear," he murmurs. "You and the baby are my priorities. You don't have to worry about Duri."

You close your eyes for a moment, letting his words sink in, but you still feel a lingering uncertainty. However, for the moment, his arms around you bring a sense of reassurance, even if just for a little while.

As you pull away from Jungkook's embrace, your eyes flicker towards the door. You catch a glimpse of Duri standing in the doorway, watching silently. A small smirk plays on your lips, a thought forming in your mind. You turn back to Jungkook, locking eyes with him. Without saying a word, you pull him closer, your lips crashing against his in a heated kiss.

Jungkook hesitates for a split second, surprised by your sudden intensity, but then he leans into it, his arms wrapping around your waist as the kiss deepens. The warmth between you both is undeniable as the kiss turns into a makeout, your hands tangled in his hair, his fingers tracing along your back.

For a moment, the world outside of the two of you disappears. But through the corner of your eye, you catch Duri's reflection in the glass, her expression unreadable. You smirk inwardly, knowing that this will certainly make an impression.

The kiss lingers, passionate and intense, as if to remind both Duri and yourself of the bond you share with Jungkook. You finally pull away, your breath shallow, and glance towards the door as you move to his neck.

As your lips linger on Jungkook's neck, you feel his breath hitch slightly, his grip tightening around you as he explores your body with a tenderness that only he can manage. You savor the moment, a small sense of satisfaction blooming inside you as his response grows more intense, more eager. The warmth between you two is undeniable, and for a brief moment, everything else fades away.

But then, as you pull back, a slight cough breaks through the intimate silence. You turn your head just in time to see Duri standing in the doorway, a subtle but knowing look on her face. Jungkook, still caught in the heat of the moment, turns to face her, his posture immediately shifting as he quickly readjusts himself, his cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and confusion.

"Uh... sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt," Duri says, her voice cool and slightly distant, though the slight smirk on her lips doesn't go unnoticed.

Jungkook clears his throat, trying to regain his composure, and looks back at you, his eyes still a little clouded from the heated exchange. "It's fine," he says, though the tension in the air is palpable. "We... were just talking."

You can tell he's uncomfortable with the interruption, but you don't let it show. Instead, you offer a subtle, knowing smile, your gaze flickering between him and Duri. "It's okay, Jungkook. Don't worry about it," you say smoothly, giving him a reassuring look before turning your attention to Duri.

She stands there, her arms crossed, but you can sense something in her demeanor — a flicker of annoyance, perhaps jealousy, or maybe just a lingering feeling of being out of place. Whatever it is, it's there, and you can't help but feel a sense of triumph knowing you've made your intentions clear.

"Did you need something?" you ask, your voice casual yet pointed, waiting for Duri to speak up.

Duri's smile is almost too sweet as she says, "No, I was just coming to wish you two goodnight." She pauses for a moment, glancing between you and Jungkook before continuing, "But actually, Jungkook, do you have toothpaste? I forgot to bring mine."

Jungkook, still a bit flustered from the moment, nods and stands up quickly. "Yeah, I'll grab it for you," he says, trying to keep his tone neutral. He gives you a quick, apologetic glance before heading towards the bathroom, leaving you and Duri alone in the room.

As he walks out, you can feel Duri's gaze on you, lingering just a little too long. There's a subtle shift in the atmosphere—something almost imperceptible but enough to make you aware of it. She steps a little closer, her smile still intact, but it doesn't quite reach her eyes.

"So," she says casually, her tone light but with an edge of something you can't quite place, "you and Jungkook, huh? Quite the couple." Her eyes flicker down to your hand, where your fingers are still intertwined with his. "Must be nice."

You can tell she's pushing your buttons, testing you in some way. The way she says it, with a hint of mockery, almost makes it seem like she's sizing you up, waiting for a reaction.

You hold her gaze, not letting her get under your skin, and with a calm smile, you respond, "Yes, it is nice. He's amazing." You watch her carefully, silently daring her to challenge you further, but she just smiles again, tilting her head.

"Well, goodnight then," she says, taking a step back. Her smile is still there, but now it seems a little forced. "I'll let you two be."

You don't reply immediately, choosing instead to give her a look that says everything without saying a word. As she walks out of the room, the tension lingers, but you're determined not to let her get to you. When Jungkook returns, you'll remind him who matters, and that's you.

The door clicks shut behind her, and you can finally breathe again, the brief moment of discomfort passing as you wait for Jungkook to come back.

You take a deep breath, the unease still gnawing at you. Before you can second-guess yourself, you walk toward the door and head down the hallway, determined to confront Duri. You catch up to her just as she's about to walk into the guest room.

"Duri," you say, your voice steady but firm. She turns to look at you, her smile faltering for a split second, as if caught off guard.

You take a step closer, crossing your arms over your chest. "Why are you all over Jungkook like that?" you ask, not backing down. "You know he has a girlfriend and a baby on the way. So why the constant attention?"

Duri's expression shifts, and for a brief moment, she seems genuinely surprised by your question. Then, as if she's preparing herself, her smile reappears, but it's not as warm as it once was. "I'm just being friendly, Y/n," she says, her tone too sweet to be convincing. "Jungkook and I have known each other for a long time. We're just catching up."

You can feel your frustration bubbling up inside. You're not buying it. "Catching up?" you repeat, raising an eyebrow. "It didn't look like catching up to me. It looked like you were flirting with him, and I don't think that's 'friendly.'"

Duri doesn't flinch, but you notice the shift in her demeanor. She steps back slightly, her eyes narrowing just a touch. "Look," she says, her voice taking on a sharper edge, "I'm not here to cause any trouble. You don't need to worry about me. If Jungkook didn't want me around, he wouldn't be, right?"

Her words hit you like a slap, but you hold your ground. "You're not answering my question, Duri," you press, trying to keep your cool. "Why are you acting like you're entitled to his attention? He's with me, and he has a child on the way. Don't act like you're clueless."

There's a brief pause before Duri sighs, the mask of sweetness slipping just for a second. "You really think he's going to stay with you forever, don't you?" she says, her voice laced with a hint of something darker. "You're so sure of him. But things change, Y/n. People change."

The words hang in the air, heavy with implication. You want to snap back, to remind her of everything she doesn't understand, but instead, you force yourself to take a deep breath. You're not going to let her get to you.

"You're wasting your time, Duri," you finally say, keeping your voice steady. "You're not going to get between us. So, if you're here to 'catch up,' maybe you should start respecting boundaries. Because I'm not going anywhere."

Duri's eyes flash with something unreadable for a moment, but then she simply smirks, a soft laugh escaping her lips. "We'll see about that, won't we?" she says, turning on her heel and walking into the guest room, leaving you standing in the hallway, feeling the tension hang in the air.

As the door shuts softly behind her, you know this isn't over, but you're determined to stand your ground. Jungkook is yours, and no matter what Duri throws your way, you're not backing down.

You walk upstairs and find Jungkook sitting on the bed, watching TV. It's unusual since he never really watches TV before bed. You can't help but feel a little curious as to why he's doing it now, but decide to let it slide for the moment. You walk over to him, giving him a small smile, then, without thinking much, you sit down on his lap, straddling him gently.

He looks at you, a little surprised but smiling nonetheless. "Hey, how are you?" he asks, his voice soft and sincere.

You nod, leaning in closer to him, your eyes full of unspoken thoughts. "I'm good," you say quietly, but your eyes are pleading, asking for more attention, more reassurance. It's not lost on him, and he chuckles, the sound warm and comforting.

"You're so cute," Jungkook says with a laugh, running his fingers gently through your hair, clearly melting under your gaze. "I'm guessing you're here for more than just a chat, huh?"

You smile, a little mischievous, before resting your head on his shoulder. "Maybe," you whisper playfully. His arms instinctively wrap around you, pulling you closer.

"You know you can always talk to me, right?" Jungkook says, his voice soft and serious now, as his fingers trace comforting patterns on your back. "Anything that's bothering you, I'm here."

You let out a small sigh, feeling the weight of the day lift a little. "I know," you say, "I just... I want us to be okay. Everything with Duri... it's been weighing on me. I'm not used to feeling like this."

He pulls back slightly, looking into your eyes, and you can see the concern there. "Y/n, I promise you, I'm with you. Don't let her get to you. She's just a friend, and I'm not going anywhere."

You look at him, your eyes searching for the sincerity in his words, and when you find it, you nod. "I know you're here with me," you say softly. "I just... I don't like feeling like I'm competing for your attention."

Jungkook's expression softens, and he gently cups your face in his hands. "You never have to compete for my attention. You have all of it, always. Don't doubt that. I told you Duri is my friend we're only helping her for work and catching up she could never she likes you a lot."

You feel a wave of relief wash over you as his words sink in. You smile, finally feeling like you can breathe a little easier. "Thank you," you whisper, leaning in for a gentle kiss. "I love you."

"I love you too," Jungkook says, his voice full of warmth as he kisses you back, pulling you closer as the moment lingers, the worries from earlier slowly fading away.

Still straddling him, you both kiss again, this time deeper, more intimate. The kiss lingers as the world around you fades away, and you lose track of time, caught in the moment. His hands move gently over your back, pulling you closer as you both explore each other in a way that feels almost like a second nature between the two of you.

When you finally pull away, your lips are swollen from the intensity, both of you breathless. You lock eyes, the room feeling thick with the tension of unspoken feelings. Neither of you says anything for a moment, just staring at each other, both still a little dazed from the kiss. But then, almost instinctively, you lean in again, pulling him into another messy kiss, this one even more frantic and desperate than the last. His hands slide up to your waist, holding you close as he deepens the kiss, your heart racing faster with each touch.

The heat between you two rises, and you both break apart only when the need to breathe becomes overwhelming. You both sit there, looking at each other, trying to catch your breath, the connection between you two stronger than ever. The silence feels comforting in its own way, the moment still hanging between you two.

Jungkook's breath is uneven as he smiles at you, his forehead resting against yours. "You're amazing," he whispers, his voice soft but full of sincerity.

You smile back, your heart swelling with affection for him. "You're not so bad yourself," you tease lightly, brushing his hair back from his forehead.

There's a pause, then Jungkook looks at you, a bit more serious now. "Are you okay? I know things have been... a little weird with Duri. I just want to make sure you're alright."

You nod, feeling reassured by his presence. "I am now," you say, your hand resting over his heart. "Just needed to be reminded how much you care. That's all."

"I'll always care about you," Jungkook promises, kissing the top of your head. "No one's taking that away."

The next day started the same—Jungkook and Duri were downstairs working out while you made breakfast. But today was different. Today, you had plans, and for once, you were genuinely excited.

Jungkook's mother had called you earlier, asking if you wanted to go out for tea and talk. It was unexpected but welcomed. You always got along with her, and with everything going on, some time away from the house sounded like a breath of fresh air.

As you set the plates down, you glanced towards the living room, hearing Jungkook's laughter mix with Duri's. You rolled your eyes slightly but didn't let it get to you. Let them have their little morning routine—because today, you'd be spending time with someone who actually mattered.

Smiling to yourself, you grabbed your phone to text Mina, already knowing she'd be curious about your day.

You called out to Jungkook, and soon enough, he and Duri followed, both slightly out of breath from their workout. You handed them each a plate of food, watching as Jungkook smiled in thanks while Duri gave a small, polite nod.

Trying to keep your tone casual, you asked, "Are you guys doing anything today?"

Jungkook nodded, taking a bite of his food. "Yeah, Duri wants to check out some spots in the city, so I told her I'd take her around."

You hummed in response, glancing at Duri, who seemed way too pleased with that answer. Of course, she did.

"Well, I won't be home for a bit either," you said, taking a sip of water. "Jungkook's mom invited me out for tea."

Jungkook perked up at that, his expression softening. "Oh? That's nice. She loves spending time with you."

Duri, on the other hand, barely reacted, simply poking at her food.

You smiled, tilting your head. "Yeah, she does."

And that's exactly why you weren't going to let anything or anyone get in the way of your peace today.

Duri suddenly perked up, setting her fork down with an exaggerated sigh. "Ah, Jungkook's mom," she mused, a dreamy smile on her lips. "She absolutely adores me. Honestly, I think she loved me the most out of all of Jungkook's friends back then."

You raised an eyebrow, chewing on your food as she continued.

"She used to say I was like the daughter she never had," Duri added, placing a hand on her chest dramatically. "I swear, if things were different, she probably would've adopted me."

Jungkook chuckled, clearly not taking her seriously. "Yeah, she always liked you."

You kept your expression neutral, but inside, you were unimpressed. If she thought bringing up Jungkook's mom would make you feel insecure, she was dead wrong.

"That's sweet," you said with a small smile. "She always talks about how much she loves me, too. I mean, she is going to be the grandmother of our baby, so it makes sense."

Duri's smile faltered for just a second before she quickly covered it up, laughing lightly. "Of course! I mean, how could she not? She has so much love to give."

Jungkook, oblivious to the tension, simply nodded. "She really does."

You glanced at the clock, feeling more than ready to spend the day with someone who genuinely loved and cared about you.

You had just grabbed your bag, ready to leave when you felt a sudden tug on your wrist. Before you could even react, you were pulled back against Jungkook's firm chest.

"Leaving without saying goodbye?" he murmured, his voice low and teasing.

You opened your mouth to reply, but the words never came—Jungkook's hands found your waist, pulling you flush against him as he leaned down. His lips ghosted over yours for a second, his eyes dark and mischievous. Then, without warning, he kissed you—slow and deliberate, his teeth grazing your lower lip before pulling back with a quiet smirk.

You blinked up at him, breath caught in your throat as he ran his tongue over his lip, eyes lazily dragging up and down your figure.

"Don't be gone too long," he murmured, squeezing your pregnant waist once before letting go.

You barely registered Duri watching from the corner of your eye, her smile tight as Jungkook shot you one last heated glance.Yeah, you were definitely winning this game.

As you stepped outside, you immediately spotted Jungkook's mother standing beside her car, her posture poised yet relaxed as she glanced down at her phone. She looked up at the sound of the door unlocking, her face brightening with a warm smile when she saw you.

"Y/n, you look lovely," she complimented, giving you a once-over, clearly approving of your outfit.

You smiled, feeling a little extra confident in the chic ensemble you had chosen—a fitted white top, stylish high-waisted beige long skirt, and a matching short white round neck coat that tied the whole look together. "Thank you! I figured I'd dress up a little since I'm going out with you."

She chuckled, unlocking the car doors. "That's sweet of you, but you always look beautiful. Come on, let's go before the tea house gets busy."

Sliding into the passenger seat, you fastened your seatbelt, your mind momentarily drifting to Jungkook and his reaction to your outfit before you left. You smirked to yourself—if only his mother knew how her son looked at you before you walked out the door.

As Jungkook's mother drove, you turned to her with a curious smile. "So, what's the plan for today?"

She glanced at you before focusing back on the road. "Well, before we go for tea, I wanted to take you to my company. Show you around a bit."

Your eyebrows lifted in surprise. "Oh, really?"

She nodded, smiling. "Yes. You're going to be part of our family, and I want you to see what I do. Plus, I think you'd find it interesting."

You felt a little honored that she wanted to share something so personal with you. "I'd love that," you replied genuinely.

She reached over and patted your hand. "Good. I think it'll be fun."

As the car moved smoothly through the city, Jungkook's mother glanced at you with a warm smile. "So, how's the baby? How are you feeling?"

You smiled, resting a hand on your belly instinctively. "Everything's been going well, just a lot of changes. The baby moves a lot now, especially at night. And I swear, my cravings get worse every week."

She chuckled, nodding knowingly. "That sounds about right. You're getting closer now—these last weeks will be the most exhausting but also the most exciting."

You sighed playfully. "Tell me about it. I feel like I can barely get up without Jungkook helping me."

Her smile grew at the mention of her son. "Speaking of Jungkook, how's he been? Is he taking good care of you?"

You let out a small laugh, thinking back to all the ways Jungkook had been helping—sometimes overly so. "Oh, he's been very involved. He's always bringing me food, making sure I rest, and—believe it or not—we've been going to pregnancy classes together."

Her eyebrows lifted in pleasant surprise. "Really? Jungkook? Pregnancy classes?"

You grinned, nodding. "Yeah, he wasn't too fond of it at first. Thought it was awkward and cringey. But he's actually getting used to it. The last time we went, he was laughing with the other people and actually taking part in everything. It was kinda adorable."

She shook her head, smiling fondly. "That sounds just like him. He pretends he doesn't care, but deep down, he does."

You nodded, thinking back to how Jungkook had once reluctantly held the practice baby, only to end up completely focused on wrapping it correctly. "Exactly. He even admitted he kind of likes it now, but I think it's mostly because he gets to show off."

She laughed at that. "Well, that's Jungkook for you."

You smiled, feeling warm inside. "Yeah. But honestly, I love seeing him like that. It makes me excited for when the baby actually gets here."

Jungkook's mother gave you a soft, knowing look. "He's going to be a great father, Y/n. And you're going to be an amazing mother."

Hearing her say that filled you with comfort. You reached over and squeezed her hand gently. "Thank you. That means a lot."

She squeezed back before focusing on the road again. "Of course, dear. Now, let's get to the company—I think you're going to love what I have to show you."

The rest of the drive was peaceful, and you couldn't help but feel excited—not just about seeing her company but also about spending more time with her.

As the car pulled to a stop, your eyes widened in awe. The building before you was stunning—modern, sleek, yet elegant in a way that felt both powerful and welcoming. The large glass windows reflected the sun beautifully, and the well-maintained landscape surrounding the entrance made it look even more grand.

Jungkook's mother stepped out first, coming around to help you out of the car. "Welcome to my company, Y/n," she said proudly, smiling as she led you inside.

The moment you stepped in, you were greeted by the soft hum of a professional yet inviting workspace. Employees walked past, greeting Jungkook's mother with warm smiles and bows, showing how well-respected she was. The interior was just as breathtaking—marble floors, high ceilings, and an aesthetic that screamed both luxury and comfort.

You looked around, impressed. "Wow... This is incredible. The place is huge."

She chuckled, nodding. "I've spent years building this company, and it's become something I'm very proud of. Come, let me show you around."

As she guided you through the floors, you couldn't help but notice how everyone seemed genuinely happy to be working there. It wasn't just a business; it was a place filled with passion and dedication.

Jungkook's mother stopped by one of the offices and introduced you to a few of her employees, each of them greeting you with warmth. "This is Y/n, my soon-to-be daughter-in-law and mother of my grandchild," she introduced proudly, making you blush slightly.

They all congratulated you, some even cooing over your baby bump. You smiled, thanking them before Jungkook's mother continued the tour.

"This company has been my second home for years," she explained. "And one day, I hope it can be something my family can be a part of as well." She glanced at you meaningfully.

You looked at her in surprise. "Wait... are you saying—"

She smiled. "I'm just saying that if you ever want to be involved, the opportunity will always be here for you."

It was unexpected, but it warmed your heart. The thought of being part of something so special, something she built, made you feel truly welcomed into the family.

"I'd love to learn more about it," you admitted with a smile.

She nodded, pleased. "Good. Now, let's finish the tour and then head to tea. I have so much more I want to talk to you about."

With that, she continued leading you through the company, making you feel more and more like an important part of something much bigger.

Jungkook's mother guided you into her office, which was just as elegant and well-kept as the rest of the company. A large window overlooked the city, letting in the soft afternoon light. The room smelled of fresh flowers and expensive wood, giving off a calming yet powerful aura.

She helped you sit on the plush chair before moving gracefully to the tea set already prepared on a small glass table. With practiced ease, she poured the tea into delicate porcelain cups, the faint aroma of jasmine and honey filling the space.

"I had them prepare something light and soothing for you," she said, handing you a cup with a warm smile.

You accepted it, smiling back. "Thank you. This is really nice."

She took a sip of her own tea before placing the cup down, her gaze settling on you.

After a moment of quiet, she glanced up and asked casually, "So, have you met Duri?"

You nearly paused mid-sip, already trying to think of the right words. You forced a polite smile, nodding. "Yes, I have."

She hummed, taking a sip of her tea, observing you carefully. "And? What do you think of her?"

You hesitated, not wanting to sound negative but also not wanting to lie. "She's... familiar with Jungkook," you finally said, choosing your words carefully.

Jungkook's mother raised an eyebrow, swirling the tea in her cup as if processing your response. "Familiar, huh?" she echoed, a hint of amusement in her voice.

You let out a small chuckle, setting your cup down. "Well, she's definitely comfortable around him. Very... close."

She exhaled, leaning back slightly in her chair. "That doesn't surprise me," she admitted. "Duri's always had a way of making herself feel at home where she isn't necessarily invited."

Your brows furrowed slightly at her words, sensing there was more to the story. "You've known her for a long time, then?"

Jungkook's mother nodded. "Since they were in college. She was always hanging around Jungkook, finding ways to be near him. At first, I thought she was just a clingy friend, but over time, I could tell she wanted something more."

Your stomach twisted at the confirmation of what you had already suspected. So Duri had always been like this.

Your lips pressed together as you processed her words. There was something about the way she said it—casual yet firm—that told you she had been aware of Duri's behavior for a long time.

"She's been persistent, even now," you admitted carefully, watching her reaction. "Jungkook doesn't see it the way I do. He thinks she's just being friendly."

Jungkook's mother scoffed softly, shaking her head. "That boy has always been blind when it comes to women like her. He believes in the best of people—sometimes to a fault."

You swallowed, feeling both validated and frustrated. "I don't want to seem jealous or petty, but it's hard when she's constantly around him, touching him, acting like—" You paused, exhaling. "Like I don't exist."

His mother's expression softened as she reached out, placing a gentle hand over yours. "Sweetheart, jealousy isn't the issue here. Trust me, I've watched Duri do this for years. You're not imagining things."

You felt a weight lift off your chest at her words. Finally, someone else saw it.

"She's always wanted Jungkook," she continued, her voice quieter now. "But he never wanted her. She was just always... there."

You frowned. "And he never noticed?"

"Oh, he noticed," she said knowingly. "But he never gave her the reaction she wanted. That's why she's still trying."

She sighed, her expression softening as she glanced down at her tea. "I never said anything back then, and I regret it. Duri was always there for Jungkook, especially during the hard times. Like after his breakup... those were dark times for him. And during other struggles, she was always his shoulder to lean on." She paused, a bittersweet smile forming. "I loved that she cared for him so much."

You listened carefully, trying to understand her perspective. "It sounds like she was really there for him when he needed someone."

Jungkook's mother nodded, her eyes distant for a moment. "Yes, she was. And I appreciated that. But the problem was... she didn't just want to be there as a friend. She wanted more. And I think, for a long time, Jungkook didn't see it that way."

You couldn't help but feel a little frustrated, your mind racing with the idea of Duri's intentions. "So, she stuck around hoping that he'd eventually fall for her, even though she was there as his support."

She sighed deeply, her gaze now focused on you. "Exactly. She never quite moved on from the idea of being with him, and she thought if she waited long enough, he'd realize that she was the one who had been there for him all along. She never truly accepted him moving on with someone else."

A wave of realization hit you. "So, now that I'm in the picture, I'm the obstacle for her?"

His mother gave a small nod, her expression thoughtful. "It's not about you, really. It's about her not letting go of a dream that was never meant to be. But I want you to know this—Jungkook is with you, and he's made it clear how much you mean to him. Don't let her insecurities get to you."

You felt a weight lift off your shoulders, hearing her words. "Thank you," you said softly, a little reassured.

She smiled warmly. "You're welcome. Just remember, you don't need to fight for his love—he's already chosen you."

Jungkook's mother leaned forward slightly, her expression serious. "I knew this would happen. It always does with Duri. Her jealousy. It's like a switch that flips whenever she feels threatened. So, when Jungkook messaged me, saying you were acting off and he wanted to check in on you, I could tell it wasn't just concern. Duri had a reason for it."

You frowned, your mind racing to understand. "So, you think Duri pushed him to check on me? Not because he was genuinely worried, but because she was trying to keep control?"

Jungkook's mother sighed, nodding slowly. "Exactly. She has a way of making everything about her, even when it's not. She saw you and Jungkook getting closer, and I think that scared her. She didn't want to lose her hold on him, and she knew he would come to me for advice. That's why she's been doing all of this, trying to create tension between you two."

You bit your lip, feeling the weight of the situation. "But why can't she just let go? Why does she keep trying to come between us?"

Her eyes softened, a hint of sadness in her gaze. "Because she's been attached to him for so long. Even though it wasn't a romantic relationship, she's always been his emotional support, and she can't seem to let that go. And now, she sees you taking her place in a way, and that's hard for her to accept."

You sat back, digesting her words. It was starting to make sense, but it didn't make it any easier. "So, what do I do? How do I deal with her without causing more problems?"

Jungkook's mother gave you a reassuring smile. "You just need to stay strong and be confident in what you have with Jungkook. She'll test you, but you can't let her get to you. Show her that your relationship is solid, and eventually, she'll realize she can't break it apart."

You looked at Jungkook's mother, your voice soft but firm. "Please don't tell Jungkook about this, or about how I feel about Duri. I just don't want to create conflict right now. I don't know how he'd react, and I don't want to make things worse for everyone."

She looked at you for a moment, her gaze thoughtful, and then nodded slowly. "I understand. I won't tell him. I can see you're trying to handle this on your own, and I respect that. It's not easy dealing with these things, especially when you care so much."

You let out a breath of relief, feeling some of the tension ease in your chest. "Thank you. I just need some time to figure out how to approach this, how to talk to him about it without everything blowing up."

She smiled softly, her eyes full of warmth and understanding. "Take all the time you need. You're doing what feels right for you, and that's all that matters. If you ever need someone to talk to, I'm here. And if you want me to intervene with Duri at any point, just let me know."

You felt comforted by her words, grateful for her support. "I really appreciate that. I'll let you know if I need anything."

As you walked back into the living room, you couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over you. The conversation with Mrs. Jeon had given you some peace of mind, knowing that it wasn't just you who noticed Duri's behavior. It felt good to know that someone else, especially someone who cared for Jungkook so deeply, understood the situation. You smiled to yourself, grateful for the support, but also determined to handle things in your own way when the time came.

When you entered the room, Jungkook was sitting on the couch, glancing up at you. His warm smile immediately made you feel at ease, though you couldn't completely shake off the lingering thoughts about Duri. You sat down beside him, the weight of the conversation still fresh in your mind, but the comfort of being with Jungkook making everything feel a little lighter.

"Hey," he greeted, his voice soft, and his hand reaching for yours. "How was your day? Everything okay?"

You squeezed his hand, forcing a smile. "Yeah, everything's fine. Just needed to get some things off my chest." You looked at him, trying to push aside the thoughts of Duri for the moment. "What about you? How was your day with Duri?"

He shrugged, looking a bit distracted. "Same as always. She's been... a bit much lately, though. But, you know, it's whatever."

You raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his words, but didn't push him to elaborate just yet. For now, you were just glad to have this moment of peace.

You look at Jungkook, raising an eyebrow. "Where's Duri?" you ask, trying to mask the uncertainty in your voice.

He glances around before answering, "She's in the back garden, painting. I came inside for water, but I heard you come in and came to greet you since I missed you."

You nod, trying to keep your composure. "I missed you too," you say with a small smile, trying to push away any lingering thoughts about Duri and focus on Jungkook.

He gives you a warm smile, pulling you into a quick hug. "Glad you're back," he murmurs softly, before pulling away to give you a playful grin. "What's on your mind?"

You just shake your head, not wanting to voice everything that's been bothering you. "Nothing, just glad to see you."

You smile at Jungkook, trying to keep things casual. "Hey, could you grab me something from upstairs?" you ask, trying to make it sound like a simple request. "Maybe my sketchbook? I feel like drawing outside."

He nods, looking at you curiously. "Sure. I'll meet you in the garden," he says, then adds with a teasing smile, "Don't start without me."

You watch him head upstairs, feeling a bit of relief as you take a moment for yourself. With everything that's been happening, it's nice to have a moment alone in the garden to clear your head.

You walk into the garden, your eyes landing on Duri as she focuses on her painting, a soft smile on her face. You take a deep breath, trying to keep your emotions in check, and greet her gently, "Hey, Duri."

She looks up, her expression brightening as she sees you. "Oh, hey!" she says cheerfully, wiping her hands on a cloth before setting it down beside her. "How are you?"

You force a smile, trying to hide the frustration bubbling inside. "I'm good, thanks. Just thought I'd come out here for some fresh air," you say, keeping your tone light.

Duri nods, clearly not sensing the tension. "That's nice! It's so peaceful out here, isn't it?"

You nod in agreement, though your mind is elsewhere. Every moment spent around her felt increasingly awkward, but you kept your cool, hoping Jungkook would join you soon.

Duri laughs as she continues, clearly caught up in her own memories. "Jungkook and I used to paint like this all the time when we were younger. It's funny how some things never change, huh?" She grins, completely unaware of the growing tension in the air. "I can pretty much convince him to do anything, you know? He's always been so easygoing with me."

At that, your smile fades slightly, your eyes narrowing as you listen. You force yourself to stay calm, but the words hit you harder than you expect. You can't help but glare, the mixture of frustration and protectiveness bubbling up. "Well, I guess it's nice that you two can bond like that," you say, your tone edging a bit sharper than you intended.

Duri doesn't seem to notice, continuing on with her story. But you can feel your patience thinning, waiting for Jungkook to show up and break the tension that Duri seems oblivious to.

You feel a sharp chill run down your spine as Duri smirks, the words coming out of her mouth making your heart race. "You don't have to be jealous," she says, her tone almost playful, as if she's teasing you.

Your breath catches in your throat. You couldn't have heard her right, could you? You force yourself to ask, your voice a little shaky, "What do you mean by that?"

Duri tilts her head, clearly enjoying the reaction she's getting. "Oh, come on. I've noticed how jealous you've been getting whenever Jungkook and I are around each other. It's really not a good look," she continues, her smile never fading. "But, I guess it's normal. I mean, anyone would be jealous of someone so close to him, right? I'm practically family to him."

Every word she speaks feels like a slap, and it's all you can do not to snap back at her. You want to say something, but the mix of confusion and anger leaves you frozen for a moment. Your mind is racing, trying to process what she's saying, but it's hard to ignore the hurt and the bitterness her words leave behind.

"Close to him, huh?" You manage to say, your voice trembling slightly despite your best effort to stay calm. "Well, we're all in this together, aren't we?"

Her words hit you like a punch to the gut, and the smirk on her face only adds to the sting. "No," she says, shaking her head, as if she's explaining something obvious. "Jungkook loves me. Anything I do, he'll be down for me."

That's it. The anger that had been simmering inside you finally boils over, and without thinking, you stand up abruptly, fists clenched. The thought of her playing these games with you, testing your patience like this, pushes you to the edge.

"Is that so?" Your voice shakes with a mix of disbelief and fury. "You really think you can just come in here, try to manipulate everything, and use your so-called 'closeness' with him to get what you want?"

The words spill out before you can stop them, but you don't care. You're done with the subtle jabs, the insinuations. You're done letting her think she can get away with this.

"You don't have a claim on him," you add, your tone low and sharp. "You never will."

The sudden chaos catches you off guard. Duri pushes her painting supplies all over the floor, the paint splattering and mixing with the water as she suddenly douses herself. Her eyes start watering as she begins to apologize frantically, her voice shaky.

"Sorry, I... I didn't mean to upset you," she stammers, looking like she's about to break down. The shift in her demeanor is so sudden that it catches you completely off guard. Your confusion grows, unsure if this is all part of some manipulative game or if she's genuinely upset.

Before you can respond, you hear Jungkook's voice calling out. "What happened?!" He comes rushing out, concern written all over his face as he hurries to her side.

His attention shifts to her completely, kneeling down beside her, reaching for her, and looking up at you with an expression that makes it clear he's worried about her. The situation is becoming increasingly frustrating, and the mix of emotions is overwhelming.

You can't help but feel the anger flare up again, but now, there's also a sense of confusion. Why is she doing this? Why is it that every time you're near, she pulls something like this, making it seem like you're the one overreacting?

You stand frozen for a moment, watching the scene unfold.

Duri's voice cracks as she explains between sobs, "I... I didn't mean to make you angry. I just... I'm sorry. I didn't want things to get like this." Her apology sounds so fragile, but the way she's framing it makes you feel like the blame is being shifted to you.

Jungkook looks at you, his face filled with concern, and he calls your name in disbelief. The hurt in his voice stings, but it's as if the words themselves are a blow. He doesn't know what you've been dealing with, and yet here she is, pulling him away again, making it seem like you were the one who overreacted.

As he helps Duri to her feet, you feel a knot in your stomach. The whole situation is unraveling, and you're standing there, watching it all happen. You want to protest, to explain your side, but the words feel stuck in your throat.

He looks back at you, but there's no time for a conversation. He takes Duri inside, leaving you standing there, alone in the garden, feeling the weight of the moment pressing down on you. The confusion, the anger, and the hurt all blend together, leaving you questioning if things could get any worse.

Frustration bubbles inside you, and before you can stop yourself, you stomp your feet angrily, letting out a frustrated huff. The whole situation feels so out of control, and you're caught in the middle, unsure of what to do next. Everything feels like it's slipping through your fingers, and no matter how hard you try to hold onto it, it's all falling apart.

You clench your fists, biting your lip, trying to suppress the urge to shout. The way Jungkook ran to Duri's side without questioning her... it cuts deeper than you'd like to admit. You don't want to feel like this. You don't want to feel so powerless.

The jealousy, the frustration—it all swirls around in your mind. Maybe you should have handled things differently, but at this point, you're lost in a sea of emotions and confusion. The worst part is, you feel like you're losing control over the one thing that should matter most to you: your relationship with Jungkook.