23

A/n : 150+ comments for next part.

The air in St. Petersburg was thick with tension and the salty scent of the nearby Baltic Sea.

Jungkook and Y/n as they navigated through the crowded streets, their appearances drastically altered.

Both wore blonde wigs; Jungkook's now adorned with a thick, fake mustache that barely covered the worry etched into his features.

The thin layer of multani mitti rubbed on their skin darkened their complexions, a stark contrast to their usual looks.

Contact lenses turned their eyes an unfamiliar shade, and numerous face piercings completed their disguises. Their new appearances were far from the polished and controlled personas they usually projected.

Jungkook's eyes darted around nervously, taking in the WANTED posters that plastered every available surface.

"What now?" Jungkook hissed, his voice edged with panic. The once familiar confidence was replaced by a raw, animalistic fear.

"We should have destroyed Phoenix," he muttered, his voice trembling. "They'll find us."

Y/N squeezed his hand, her grip firm. "Shush," she said, her voice sharp. "We have a plan."

She led him to the bustling seaport. The salty air was a stark contrast to the oppressive atmosphere of the city.

As Y/N stood by the railing, the salty breeze tousling her hair, a man approached her.

He was the epitome of charm, with a smile that could melt ice and an aura of effortless confidence.

There was an intimacy in his exchange with Y/n, a familiarity that made Jungkook bristle with unease.

The way he eyes her, the way his hands roamed her waist a little longer after the hug didn't particularly settle well with Jungkook.

"You must be the one causing all the commotion," he drawled, his voice carrying a hint of disdain.

Y/n, unfazed, returned his gaze with a steady smile. "Guilty as charged," she replied, her tone light.

"But I promise, I'm not as dangerous as the headlines suggest. Unless you find intelligence and charm particularly threatening."

A slow, appreciative smile curved the man's lips. "Intelligence and charm are a dangerous combination," he replied, his eyes holding a challenge.

"But I'm intrigued."

He had that air about him, you know?

Like the world revolved around him. Eyes glinting with amusement, he fixed Y/n with a gaze that was part curiosity, part challenge.

"And you are?" the guy finally turned his attention to Jungkook, his gaze appraising.

Y/N, sensing the tension, quickly intervened. "This is Jungkook. My... Professor."

Jungkook stiffened, his eyes narrowing. Professor? How could she just introduce him as just a professor?

Yoongi's eyebrows raised in mock surprise. "A professor, huh? Must be a very patient one to tolerate such a wild student." He winked at Y/N, a playful glint in his eyes.

Jungkook's jaw clenched. He was not amused.

"How does he know my doll is a wild one?", Jungkook thought as he felt his jaws go taut.

"And you are...?" he asked, his voice edged with wariness.

The sailor chuckled, the sound rumbling like distant thunder.

"Name's Yoongi. I'm the captain of the Cordelia ship.," he said, extending a hand.

Yoongi pointed to the shore where an enormous ship lay anchored. The Cordelia was a sight to behold, its decks adorned with shimmering lights and bustling with activity. It was a floating palace, exuding opulence from every inch of its gleaming hull.

The Cordelia was renowned as the most expensive and luxurious cruise ship in the world, catering to the elite of society.

Jungkook's eyes widened in disbelief. "And you expect us to blend in with that crowd?" he asked, his voice tinged with incredulity.

Yoongi's expression remained unfazed. "Easy. You disguise yourselves as Arab merchants," he said nonchalantly, as if it were the most obvious solution in the world.

Y/n raised an eyebrow, skepticism written all over her face. "And how exactly do we pull that off?"

Yoongi smirked, leaning in as if sharing a secret. "Big traders of oil, rich guys from Dubai. No one questions them. Their attire is distinct—flowing robes, keffiyehs, and agal. Gold accessories and an air of superiority. You play the part, and people will leave you alone."

As Yoongi described the outfits, Jungkook and Y/n exchanged glances. The plan was risky, but it was their best shot at escaping unnoticed.

They followed Yoongi to a small, discreet shop near the port where he had connections. Inside, they found an array of luxurious fabrics, intricate jewelry, and everything they needed to transform into wealthy Arab merchants.

Jungkook donned a long, white robe, a keffiyeh wrapped expertly around his head and secured with an agal. Golden cufflinks and a heavy watch completed his ensemble, giving him an air of affluence. Y/n chose a similar outfit, with additional accessories to enhance the disguise—delicate gold chains, bracelets, and earrings.

Yoongi handed them both a pair of dark sunglasses. "These will help too. Keep your heads high and speak with confidence. Remember, you belong here."

"I already do, as Jeon Jungkook, without these clothes.", he scoffed with an aura of arrogance which Yoongi seem to catch easily.

"Yeah, yeah. THE JEON JK, the heir of Jenesis Corps', having a book of achievements to his name and all, but Mister, here you are just a passanger and I'm your captain.", he replied smugly and then turned his head to Y/n.

Winking smoothly he said, "Right, princess?"

Jungkook swore he could've buried Yoongi 6000 ft under water for calling his doll as someone else's princess.

His nostrils blew fireballs as he saw how Y/n's cheeks reddened with a soft blush. A blush that only he can cause.

He huffed harshly, like a boy who was denied his favourite candy and turned his face away.

If it wasn't a question of global peace, Jungkook would've gotten petty and thrown knives in Yoongi's direction that very second.

The trio made their way back to the port. The Cordelia loomed ahead, its grandeur even more imposing up close. They approached the boarding area where the affluent passengers were being checked in, their disguises drawing curious yet respectful glances.

Yoongi led the way, presenting himself and the disguised pair with a flourish. "My esteemed guests from Dubai," he announced, his voice carrying the weight of authority. The crew nodded and welcomed them aboard without a second glance.

Once on the Cordelia, the sheer luxury of the vessel became apparent. The interiors were decorated with the finest materials, from marble floors to crystal chandeliers. Guests lounged in plush chairs, sipping on expensive drinks, their conversations a murmur of wealth and power.

---

Jungkook and Y/n settled into their cabins aboard the Cordelia. The luxurious interiors were a stark contrast to their stressful reality.

While Jungkook was unpacking, Yoongi knocked on the door, leaning casually against the frame.

"Y/n," Yoongi said with a charming smile, "how about a swim in the private pool?"

"Aren't you supposed to be working as the captain, Yoongi?", she mused but Yoongi just flipped his hair back, his aura full of arrogance.

"I'm the captain, princess. I can easily afford to sneak out and enjoy a little specially when the company is so.... Enticing."

PRINCESS?

PRINCESS AGAIN?!??

YOU JSUT WAIT MIN THE FUCK YOONGI, I'LL MAKE YOU ONE AS SOON AS I'M DONE WITH PHEONIX.

And that's all that poor Jungkook's mind could register.

"So will you join?", Yoongi asked again.

Y/n glanced at Jungkook, noticing the instant frown on his face. "Sure, Yoongi. Just give me a moment," she replied, feeling Jungkook’s eyes burning into her.

As Yoongi left, Jungkook’s face turned red with jealousy. He threw his clothes into the suitcase, mumbling under his breath. "Of course, he invites you and not me. Just you wait."

Y/n chuckled at his reaction, unable to suppress her amusement. "Are you seriously jealous?"

Jungkook crossed his arms, pouting like a child. "No! Well... yes! He's clearly hitting on you!"

Y/n shook her head, a smile playing on her lips. "It's just a swim, Jungkook. Relax."

Jungkook continued to grumble. "Why does he have to invite you alone? I mean, we’re supposed to be on the run, not on a date!"

Y/n couldn’t help but laugh at his childish complaints. "Are you really that bothered? It’s just Yoongi."

Jungkook huffed, his face still red. "Just Yoongi? He’s flirting with you right in front of me!"

Y/n placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "Jungkook, you’re overreacting. He’s just being friendly."

"Friendly my foot! He’s flirting!" Jungkook exclaimed, his voice rising slightly.

"Okay, okay," Y/n said, trying to calm him down. "How about we both go for a swim then? Will that make you feel better?"

Jungkook looked a bit mollified but still suspicious. "Fine. But how do you know him anyway?"

Y/n hesitated, trying to find the right words. "It’s a long story. Let’s not get into it now."

Jungkook wasn’t having it. "No, tell me. I want to know."

Y/n sighed, knowing he wouldn’t let it go. "Alright, alright. Yoongi was... one of my one-night stands before I met you."

Jungkook's heart sank. A one-night stand? That was it? He felt a surge of relief, but it was quickly replaced by a new wave of insecurity.

What if Yoongi was the father? The thought was terrifying.

"Are you sure?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Y/N met his gaze, her eyes filled with sincerity. "Absolutely," she said.

Jungkook nodded, trying to convince himself that he believed her. But a seed of doubt had been planted, and it was growing rapidly.

Y/n went into the bathroom to change, while Jungkook sat on the edge of the bed, his mind racing with thoughts of Yoongi. When Y/n stepped out in a bikini, Jungkook’s jaw dropped. Despite the little baby bump, she looked stunning, and he felt a blush creeping up his cheeks.

"You’re not seriously going out in that, are you?" Jungkook stammered, his face turning a deeper shade of red.

Y/n raised an eyebrow. "Why not? It’s a pool, Jungkook."

Jungkook’s protective instincts kicked in. "But... you’re... I mean, you look... too hot! What if Yoongi sees you like this?"

Y/n laughed, shaking her head. "You’re impossible. Come on, we’re going."

Y/n grabbed Jungkook by the ear and dragged him out of the cabin, his protests filling the hallway. They reached the private pool, where Yoongi was already lounging in the water.

"Ah, you decided to join us after all and you brought the old Professor too?" Yoongi said with a wink at Y/n.

Jungkook clenched his fists, trying to stay calm. "Yeah, we did."

Y/n smiled, enjoying Jungkook’s discomfort a little too much. "Let’s get in the water, Jungkook."

They slipped into the pool, the cool water a relief from the tension. Jungkook kept a close eye on Yoongi, who seemed to be enjoying himself far too much for Jungkook’s liking.

Just then Yoongi waved at Y/n, a charming smile on his face. "Y/n, come join me! The water’s perfect."

Jungkook’s frown deepened as Y/n swam over to Yoongi, leaving him to follow reluctantly. Yoongi’s eyes sparkled with mischief as he splashed Y/n playfully. "So, Y/n, how do you like the Cordelia? Isn’t it the most magnificent cruise?"

Y/n laughed, the sound light and carefree. "It’s incredible! I’ve never been on anything like this."

Yoongi leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "You know, I have a private pool on the upper deck. It’s much quieter there. How about we check it out later?"

Jungkook had enough. He swam over, placing himself between Yoongi and Y/n. "Actually, we’re fine here, thanks."

Yoongi raised an eyebrow, clearly amused by Jungkook’s possessiveness. "Oh, come on, Jungkook. Don’t be such a killjoy."

Jungkook glared at him. "We’re here to get something done, not for... whatever it is you’re trying to do."

Yoongi smirked, leaning back in the water. "Relax, man. I’m just trying to make her feel welcome."

Y/n looked between the two men, sensing the tension. "Yoongi, maybe we should all just enjoy the pool together."

Yoongi chuckled, giving Jungkook a sidelong glance. "Sure, sure. But tell me, Jungkook, what’s your relationship with Y/n anyway? Last I heard, you were just her professor. How come you both got embroiled in such a big criminal fiasco?"

Jungkook’s mind raced, searching for a plausible explanation. "Well, things... changed. We’re... working on something together now."

Yoongi’s eyebrows shot up in a mock surprise. "Oh, really? How convenient."

Y/n shot Jungkook a questioning look, but he avoided her eyes, focusing on Yoongi instead. "Yes, really. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we’d like some alone time."

Yoongi shrugged, a sly smile on his face. "Alright, old prof. I’ll leave you to it."

As Yoongi swam away, Y/n turned to Jungkook, a mixture of amusement and annoyance in her eyes. "What was that about?"

Jungkook sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don’t trust him. He’s too... familiar with you."

Y/n shook her head, a smile tugging at her lips. "You’re jealous. It’s kind of cute."

Jungkook scowled. "I’m not cute. I’m serious."

Y/n laughed, wrapping her arms around his neck. "Relax, Jungkook. Yoongi’s just a friend. Let’s enjoy our time together."

As the day wore on, Yoongi’s flirtations continued much to Jungkook’s chagrin. During lunch, Yoongi found a seat next to Y/n, engaging her in animated conversation while Jungkook sat across from them, fuming silently.

"So, Y/n, have you tried the spa here? It’s amazing," Yoongi said, leaning in closer to her.

Y/n shook her head. "No, I haven’t had the chance yet."

Yoongi grinned. "We should go together. It’s really something."

Jungkook slammed his fork down, drawing their attention. "Maybe she doesn’t want to go to the spa with you, Yoongi."

Yoongi looked unperturbed, his smile never faltering. "Just a suggestion, Jungkook. No need to get worked up."

Y/n placed a calming hand on Jungkook’s arm. "Jungkook, it’s fine. Let’s just enjoy our meal."

Despite Y/n’s reassurances, Jungkook’s jealousy simmered beneath the surface. He watched as Yoongi continued to flirt with Y/n throughout the day, each interaction chipping away at his patience.

As the sun began to set, Jungkook found himself alone, lost in thought. He wandered to the deck, where he spotted Y/n and Yoongi standing at the railing, watching the sunset together.

Y/n’s laughter reached his ears, a sound that simultaneously warmed and pained him.

From a distance, Jungkook admired how beautiful she looked in the soft glow of the setting sun.

Her smile was radiant, and he couldn’t help but notice how Yoongi’s presence seemed to make her happy in a way he hadn’t been able to.

A pang of jealousy and insecurity twisted in his chest. He remembered the small weapon he carried, the Phoenix weapon. As he looked at it, tears welled up in his eyes.

"Y/n thinks she’s a genius in thermodynamics," he muttered to himself, "but she isn’t. If her Arctic plan to destroy the Phoenix doesn’t work, I’ll do it myself. Even if it means... destroying myself too."

He glanced back at Y/n and Yoongi, his heart aching with the thought of never being able to bring her the same happiness. "Maybe Yoongi is the baby daddy," he whispered, the insecurity gnawing at him. "And I’m just... not enough."

Jungkook wiped away his tears, steeling himself for what he felt was his inevitable fate. "If I can’t have love, at least I can make my life worth something. I’ll die for a greater cause."

He looked back at Y/n and Yoongi one last time, the tears in his eyes reflecting the setting sun. "I love you, Y/n. Even if you never know it."

With a heavy heart, Jungkook turned away, ready to face whatever came next. He knew that his mission was more important than his feelings, and he was determined to see it through, no matter the cost.

Later that evening, Y/n and Jungkook found themselves back at the private pool, this time alone. The water shimmered under the moonlight, creating a serene atmosphere that contrasted sharply with Jungkook’s turbulent emotions.

Y/n noticed Jungkook’s distant expression and swam over to him. "Hey, are you okay?"

Jungkook forced a smile, trying to hide his inner turmoil. "Yeah, just... thinking."

Y/n frowned, sensing there was more to it. "Jungkook, talk to me. What’s going on?"

Jungkook hesitated, then shook his head. "It’s nothing. I'm just thinking."

Y/n moved closer, her concern growing. "Thinking about what? You’ve been acting so off, and it’s clear something’s bothering you. I want to know."

"Why would Robert Silvia, a man with connections to the highest levels of government, recruit a college student for a top-secret operation?" Jungkook asked, his voice laced with disbelief. "It's like giving a child the keys to a nuclear power plant."

Y/N laughed. "I know it sounds crazy," she admitted. "But Silvia read my articles. He said I had a knack for uncovering the truth."

Jungkook snorted. "A knack for uncovering the truth? That's a stretch."

Y/N ignored his sarcasm. "That's what he said. He saw something in me that no one else did."

Jungkook was skeptical. "And what exactly did he see?" he asked.

Y/N hesitated for a moment. "It's a long story," she said, her voice filled with uncertainty.

Jungkook nodded, urging her to continue.

"There's a scientist in Jenesis Corps' named Kim Namjoon," she began. "He's a brilliant scientist, a genius in his field. He worked with Jimin and Mr. Kim on the Phoenix project, though his role was quite minimal."

Jungkook was confused. "Why would Kim Namjoon, a brilliant scientist, be interested in a college student?" he asked. "He knew you as Mr. Kim's daughter. Why would he involve you in something like this?"

Y/N sighed. "I don't know the answer to that question," she admitted.

Jungkook was lost in thought, trying to piece together the puzzle. Kim Namjoon, a name synonymous with brilliance, had chosen Y/N for a top-secret mission. It was a connection he couldn't comprehend.

"Show me the proof," he demanded, his voice laced with skepticism.

Y/N pulled out her phone, her fingers trembling slightly. She scrolled through her messages until she found the one she was looking for.

It was a message from Kim Namjoon, detailing the internship opportunity and the specifics of the mission.

Jungkook examined the message, his eyes scanning the screen. It was genuine, there was no doubt about it. But something still didn't sit right.

As he was about to ask another question, the phone rang.

It was Y/N's father.

She quickly answered, putting the call on speaker.

“Dad? What’s wrong?” Y/n asked, trying to keep her tone calm.

“Y/n! Where are you? I’m hearing all sorts of terrible things about you on the news!” Mr. Kim’s voice came through, panic evident.

Y/n took a deep breath, trying to keep her composure. “Dad, please, calm down. I’m on a cruise that just left St. Petersburg. I'm in international waters now. I’m safe.”

“Safe?” Mr. Kim’s voice rose in pitch. “They’re saying you’ve stolen something—something critical! How could you be involved in something like this? What are you doing?”

“Dad, listen to me,” Y/n said, her voice trembling slightly. “I need to tell you something important.”

“Important? What could possibly be more important than explaining why you’re on the run?” Mr. Kim’s tone was sharp, laden with frustration and fear.

“I stole Pheonix from the Russians,” Y/n said, her voice barely above a whisper but firm.

Jungkook’s eyes widened as he listened to the conversation, realization dawning on him. He leaned closer to Y/n and whispered urgently, “No one except Jimin, you, me, Silvia, and Namjoon knew about Pheonix being in Russia. This could be a huge mistake.”

Damn, but the damage was done.

Y/n nodded, understanding the severity of the situation. She spoke into the phone, her voice strained but resolute. “Dad, I didn’t mean for any of this to happen. I—”

“No, you need to explain!” Mr. Kim’s voice cracked with fear.

“How did you steal something so important? How is it even in Russian hands? Wasn't Pheonix supposed to be  secure in Korea. What’s going on?”

Jungkook looked at Y/n with growing concern, realizing the gravity of her blunder. He whispered, “You shouldn’t have told him about Pheonix. This is bad. It’s going to complicate everything.”

Mr. Kim’s voice trembled with confusion. “How did you steal Pheonix? It was supposed to be safe in Korea. What on earth are you involved in? Why would you risk everything for a trivial weapon?”

Jungkook's brows furrowed.

Trivial weapon? What is Mr. Kim even saying?

He himself creates Pheonix. He must know how dangerous Pheonix is.

Y/n’s heart raced as she tried to explain. “Dad, it’s a long story. I acted on urgent information and didn’t fully understand the implications. I’m trying to fix the situation now.”

Mr. Kim’s voice was a mix of panic and disbelief. “You stole it? Why would you do that? And how did you get involved with something so critical without knowing the full picture? I just spoke with Namjoon yesterday. He assured me the weapon was safe.”

Jungkook watched Y/n with a mixture of frustration and concern.

How could Kim Namjoon assure Mr. Kim that Pheonix was safe in Korea?

Y/n’s voice was calm but firm. “Dad, I made a mistake, but I’m working to fix it. I need you to stay calm and not panic. I’ll handle the situation.”

Mr. Kim’s fear was evident as he continued to shout. “Calm? How can I stay calm when you’re involved in something so dangerous? I just want you to be safe. Explain to me how you ended up in this mess!”

Jungkook abruptly cut the call, his face pale and eyes sharp with concern. Y/n tried to protest, but Jungkook interrupted her, his voice edged with urgency.

“Why did Kim Namjoon say the weapon was secure in a facility in Korea?” Jungkook demanded, his frustration evident. “Why did he lie about it?”

Y/n furrowed her brow, confusion written all over her face. “What are you talking about? What do you mean?”

Jungkook’s frustration deepened. “So far, I can’t understand why Mr. Kim referred to Pheonix as a trivial weapon. It’s a weapon capable of annihilating entire cities with a single command. It can destroy the world! How could he call it trivial?”

Y/n took a moment to process Jungkook’s words before responding. “Well, Jimin was the one developing the main parts of Pheonix. My dad was only handling the thermodynamics and some other technical aspects. Maybe Jimin kept the more dangerous details hidden from him?”

Jungkook nodded slowly, recalling his conversations with Jimin. “Yeah, Jimin did want Mr. Kim’s help only in specific areas, not the entire weapon. But why would Namjoon lie about it being secure?”

Y/n’s eyes widened. “What do you mean?”

Jungkook’s expression grew more intense. “When Pheonix was stolen, Namjoon was the first person to inform Jimin. I remember it vividly. Namjoon barged into Jimin’s chamber while Jimin and I were discussing something. He was panting and out of breath, and he told us that Pheonix had been stolen from Jenesis Corps' facility by the Russians.”

[Flashbacks]

The dimly lit control room of Jenesis Corps' facility buzzed with the low hum of advanced machinery. The room, filled with sleek consoles and monitors, was a fortress of technology. At the center stood a high-tech containment unit, encasing the Pheonix MK-VI, a weapon of unimaginable destructive power.

Kim Namjoon, the chief scientist, and his team were working late into the night. Namjoon meticulously adjusted the settings on a console, ensuring the Pheonix was secure.

Outside the facility, shadows moved silently. A group of masked figures, heavily armed and clad in tactical gear, approached the outer perimeter. They were Russian operatives, led by Robert Silvia, a high-ranking official in the Russian defense sector. The operatives communicated in hushed tones, their breaths visible in the cold night air.

Silvia, with his cold, calculating gaze, glanced at a small device on his wrist. It displayed a series of intricate blueprints and security schematics of the facility.

“Initiate phase one,” he ordered, his voice sharp and authoritative.

A hacker in the group, skilled in bypassing security systems, began working on the facility’s security network. Using advanced technology, he silently infiltrated the system, disabling alarms and unlocking access points. The facility’s sophisticated security system, once impenetrable, was now vulnerable.

Inside, Namjoon and his team were oblivious to the breach. They continued their checks, unaware of the imminent danger. The quiet whir of the machines masked the sound of the intruders slipping through the facility’s ventilation system.

In the containment room, the team was just finishing their final checks when a sudden commotion erupted.

The security system’s alarm bells went off, piercing through the quiet. Namjoon’s head snapped up in alarm as the lights flickered.

He rushed to the main control panel, his face growing pale as he saw unauthorized access attempts on the screen.

Before he could react, the containment unit’s door hissed open. The masked intruders, armed and ready, stormed in. They moved with precision, quickly bypassing the remaining security measures and overpowering the startled staff.

Silvia stepped forward, his eyes fixed on the Pheonix MK-VI. “Prepare for extraction,” he commanded, his tone brooking no argument.

The operatives moved swiftly, using specialized equipment to lift and transport the weapon. The operation was seamless, a testament to their meticulous planning.

Namjoon, his heart racing, tried to intervene. “Stop them!” he shouted, but his words were drowned out by the chaos.

The metallic clank of heavy doors echoed through the sterile corridors of the Jenesis Corps' facility as Kim Namjoon, breathless and wide-eyed, rushed towards Jimin’s chamber.

Namjoon burst through the door, his face a mask of panic and urgency. “Jimin! Jungkook!” he gasped, barely able to catch his breath. “We’ve got a major problem.”

Jimin, instantly alert, stood up and moved towards Namjoon. “What happened? What’s the situation?”

“It’s the Pheonix MK-VI,” Namjoon said, his voice trembling. “It’s been stolen. The Russians have it. We need to act now or the consequences will be catastrophic.”

Jimin’s eyes widened with shock. He immediately began coordinating with the facility’s security team via his earpiece.

“I’m on it,” he said, issuing commands and requesting immediate updates on the security breach.

As Jimin worked, Namjoon’s gaze shifted to Jungkook, who had approached with a look of confusion and concern. Namjoon seized the moment, stepping closer to Jungkook and lowering his voice.

“Jungkook, listen to me. The Pheonix MK-VI is a weapon of unimaginable destruction.”

Namjoon explained, his voice low and urgent. "The energy within Phoenix is unstable. If it's detonated, it could create a chain reaction that would wipe out everything in its path"

Jungkook’s eyes widened. He had no idea that his brother and Mr. Kim were working on such a deadly weapon.

Jungkook's heart pounded. "So what do we do?" he asked, his voice trembling.

Namjoon handed him a pen drive. "This contains the information you need to destroy Phoenix," he said. "But you must keep this a secret from Jimin."

Jungkook looked at him, confused. "Why?" he asked.

Namjoon’s expression shifted to one of grim determination. “Because there’s a critical detail Jimin doesn’t need to know. The destruction of the Pheonix MK-VI will trigger a massive reaction. The person who destroys it will be destroyed too in the process. If Jimin finds out, he won’t allow you to take such a risk.”

Jungkook’s heart raced. “Are you saying that whoever destroys the weapon will die?”

Namjoon nodded solemnly. “Exactly."

Namjoon’s gaze was piercing, his voice low and persuasive.

“Because Jimin is too emotionally involved. He loves you like a brother, and his emotional attachment will cloud his judgment. He’ll never agree to let you destroy the weapon if he knows the personal cost. You’re indebted to him for the death you caused of his Gumeun eomma."

"If you don’t sacrifice yourself, the blame for the weapon’s theft will fall on Jimin, and he will be sentenced to death by law for his casualties in wiping out half of humanity.”

Jungkook’s heart raced, his mind reeling with the implications. “So, you’re saying I’m the only one who can do this?”

Namjoon’s face remained impassive, his voice dripping with false sympathy. “Yes. You’re the only one who can stop this from becoming a global catastrophe. You’ve already taken so much from Jimin. His life was shattered when Gumeun died. If you don’t act, you’ll be condemning him to even greater suffering. You owe it to him to protect him from this.”

Jungkook’s breath quickened, his eyes darting between the pen drive and Namjoon. “What should I do?”

Namjoon’s smile was cold and calculating, satisfaction gleaming in his eyes.

“You will follow the Russians and find a way to destroy the Pheonix MK-VI. I’ll ensure that Jimin believes you’re simply tracking the weapon’s whereabouts. I won’t tell him about the risk involved. It’ll be our little secret.”

Jungkook’s mind was a whirlwind of emotions, torn between his duty and his loyalty to Jimin.

Jimin’s icy exterior was a fortress he built because of Jungkook.

Snatching Gumeun eomma from Jimin was Jungkook's original sin.

Now, fate was asking for another sacrifice.

A life for a life, a heavy price to pay.

Could he bear to watch Jimin suffer again?

No. No, he can't put his brother through that again.

Maybe God was punishing him this way for causing Jimin to separate from his mom.

This is his chance to reedem his sins, he thinks.

The weight of the world, quite literally, on his shoulders.

"Alright. I'll do it. For my brother, Jimin. I'll do it.", Jungkook said finally, his eyes red yet void of any feelings.

[Flashbacks over]

[Present]

Y/n scoffed, a sharp, disdainful sound escaping her lips as she absorbed the weight of Jungkook’s confession. “So that’s what it all boils down to,” she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. “You really are a fire, Jungkook. A fire that burns itself.”

Jungkook’s brows furrowed in confusion. “What are you talking about?”

Y/n’s laughter was humorless, a bitter edge to it. “Don’t you see it, King of Fools? Kim Namjoon played you like a puppet. He knew exactly how to manipulate you by playing the brother card.”

Jungkook’s face hardened. His voice dropped to a dangerous level, barely a whisper. “Don’t you dare speak about Jimin.”

But Y/n was undeterred. She glared at him, her anger fueling her words. “Oh, don’t get all high and mighty now. Look at what Jimin did to you! He made you believe that Gumeun eomma’s death was your fault. And then he used that guilt, your vulnerability, to manipulate you into becoming what you are now—a monster.”

Jungkook’s eyes widened, a mixture of pain and fury flaring within him. “Shut up, Y/n!”

Y/n didn’t flinch. She stepped closer, reaching for his belt. With a mocking flourish, she pulled out his gun, holding it up with a disdainful smirk.

“Jeon Jungkook, the son of Gumeun, was supposed to be a preacher of love and harmony. Instead, you’ve become a harbinger of death, carrying weapons and creating havoc.”

She twirled the gun between her fingers, her expression of cold amusement. “You were meant to destroy the weapons manufacturing unit of Jenesis Corps' and work towards peace. But no, your manipulative brother used you and turned you into this heartless monster.”

Jungkook’s face reddened, his anger boiling over. “Stop talking! You don’t know anything about Jimin!”

But Y/n was relentless. Her voice rose with a fierce, cutting edge. “Everyone uses you, Jungkook. First, it was Jimin, and now it’s Namjoon. They both took advantage of your naive nature, manipulating you and hitting you where it hurts the most—your precious Gumeun eomma.”

Jungkook’s eyes were a storm of fury and anguish. He grabbed Y/n by the neck, his grip firm but not crushing, a threatening gesture meant to silence her.

“Don’t you dare speak another word about Jimin.”

Y/n’s gaze remained steady, her voice steady despite the pressure on her throat. “You’re so blinded by your own pain that you can’t see the truth. Jimin and Namjoon played you, Jungkook. They used your vulnerabilities to mold you into something you never wanted to be.”

Jungkook’s grip tightened slightly, his breathing ragged as he struggled with his emotions.

The conflict within him was palpable, a battle between the love he still held for his brother and the guilt that gnawed at him. His eyes were filled with a mixture of anger and deep sorrow.

Y/n met his gaze with unyielding resolve. “You’re not a monster, Jungkook. You’re a victim of their manipulation. But if you don’t confront the truth, you’ll never be free from this torment.”

Jungkook’s grip faltered, his anger giving way to a deep, internal struggle. He released Y/n’s neck, stepping back as he tried to steady his breath. His heart ached with the weight of the accusations and the painful truth of his own past.

Y/n rubbed her neck, her eyes never leaving Jungkook’s. “You need to see past the lies and manipulation, Jungkook. It’s the only way you’ll ever find redemption.”

Jungkook’s vision blurred as the weight of Jimin’s and Namjoon’s manipulative words swirled around him, each phrase cutting deeper into his consciousness.

The echoes of betrayal and deceit pounded relentlessly in his head, causing a searing, splitting pain that made him cry out in anguish.

The realization struck him with brutal clarity: everything he had done, every sacrifice he made for Jimin, was not out of love, but because he had been manipulated.

His own brother, whom he had loved fiercely, had used him for his own ends.

Overwhelmed by the crushing truth, Jungkook’s screams grew more desperate before the darkness finally consumed him, sending him into unconsciousness, falling right in Y/n's arms, the only safe place which could become his salvation.

.....A/n : Why do you think Namjoon manipulated JK? Also, this is not the ONLY manipulation that Kim Namjoon did to Jeon JK ;)

Welcome another villain of the story ;)

The list is going to increase only.

Hana.

Park Jimin.

Kim Namjoon.

And 3 other suspects (yet to be revealed)

Who is the real villain? The real culprit?