Love Candidate - Red Woman - Chapter 28

Disclaimer: Mature scenes & Self-harm.

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Flashback: Jiyoung x Namjoon drunk moment.

Thud. I sleepily lifted my head off the cushions after hearing the brief noise to find a person leaning against the wall as if he's struggling to walk forward. I'm a light sleeper, so even a faint sound will wake me from a deep sleep. I sat up on the couch in confusion, narrowing my eyes on the guy until I realized it was Namjoon. What is he doing down here?

"Are you alright?" I asked, getting off the couch to approach him.

"I'm fine- Just a bit dazed," Namjoon mumbled, slightly shaking his head while leaning against the wall for support. I studied his flustered cheeks in silence as he slowly straightened his body to regain his balance. He looks drunk and sick? Did I make him drink too much?

"Stay here then. I'll bring you warm water," I carefully supported Namjoon's heavy body with my arm around his waist. I brought him back to the couch to settle him down before strolling out of the dark living room to search for warm water. It took me about ten minutes to locate their kitchen because all the maids were asleep, so I had to figure out the mansion's layout by myself. I carefully poured the warm water into a mug after their automatic boiler alarmed me of the purified water, finally returning to the living room with it. I expected Namjoon to wait for me, but the living room was empty.

"Oh? Did he leave?" I muttered while standing in the empty room before glancing at the dark staircase. Should I bring it to him? I exhaled and walked up to the first floor with the mug, turning toward the right corridor to find a door left slightly open.

"I didn't know he'd be this drunk over a few cans of beer," I mumbled, strolling toward the door to enter a neat room. Unlike the royal interior of the mansion, the bedroom's interior was pretty stylish. I'm not surprised. Namjoon's taste is pretty predictable, even at his office. I carefully settled the mug on Namjoon's desk piled with stacking files while examing the room when my eyes landed on a picture frame. I lifted it up to find Namjoon standing in his graduation attire with his parents. Mr. Kim was standing proudly with his chest puffed out while Mrs. Kim clung to Namjoon's arm as he hugged a bouquet. It must be his university graduation picture. The number of medals could've broken his neck with its weight.

"Oh? Did you really bring me warm water?" Namjoon asked, suddenly stepping out of the bathroom with a soaked face and hair.

"Yeah. You disappeared-"

"I was very dizzy and felt like vomiting, so I ran back to my room. Took a quick shower," Namjoon mumbled, walking toward me in his casual outfit. I lifted the mug and handed it to him with a faint smile.

"Drink up, you noobie!" I teased. He has low alcohol tolerance, it's funny. Namjoon weakly smiled as he accepted the mug and carefully drank the water while I intensely stared at his damp hair. Water is dripping from his bangs. I quickly reached out to ruffle the towel over his hair, causing Namjoon to freeze in his place at my unexpected action.

"Do you have a maternal instinct to care for another person?" Namjoon smiled as I dabbed his face with the towel. A mother's instinct? It became my habit to care for another person since I got with Taehyung.

"No. I have serious daddy issues," I joked, gently brushing his bangs backward to reveal his hot and defined complexion. Namjoon stood before me with the mug between his hands to stare at my face with his rosy red cheeks. He slowly placed the mug on the desk as I innocently patted the towel over his head. I used to do this for Taehyung all the time when he was alive.

"Daddy issues? Is it because you lack a father's love? Was it difficult to grow up without a father? Is that why... you always put others before you?" Namjoon asked, suddenly lifting his hand to stroke my cheek. I blinked at his dazed expression with a slight frown when he suddenly stepped forward, but I didn't move and stood in my place. Why is he touching me?

"I guess so?-" I nodded, weakly chuckling but held in my breath when he suddenly lowered his face towards mine. Namjoon paused just as his lips were about to touch mine. He's so close I can count all his pores! I blinked at his honey skin and looked up to find him gazing at my shaken reaction with a soft smile.

"My brothers... They act like little kids around you, don't they?" Namjoon questioned, slightly tilting his face to the side as he traced his thumb over my jawline, sending a jolt of chilly sensation all over my back. What's the matter with him? He's not the type to get touchy with a woman.

"I think you're drunk-" I whispered but was instantly cut short when Namjoon leaned forward to close the gap between us. I stood in shock when I felt the presence of his warm lips on mine until my eyes bulged open at his drunk act. He gently grabbed my waist and pulled me closer while panting against my face when I tried to push him away.

"I'll take care of you tonight... if you don't mind?" Namjoon asked after drawing away from me with his eyebrow raised. I blinked at his boldness in confusion. Is he usually like this when he's drunk? I parted my lips to answer him when he suddenly yanked off his hoodie and slipped his clothes to the floor without warning me. I flinched at his hasty reaction with my eyes fixed on his muscular body in shock. Should I be scared of him???

"W-Why are you stripping-?" I stuttered while eyeing his well-built body when Namjoon suddenly grabbed my hand to place my fingers on his hard pecs.

"People think my brain is my only sexy strength... but they're wrong. My body is very charming as well," Namjoon smirked. I pursed my lips at his ridiculous statement to stop myself from laughing. Is that what goes on his mind when he's drunk?

"Oh- oh. I can see that," I chuckled at Namjoon's buff body structure with a slight smile. He's not wrong about his sexy body, but it's quite entertaining to listen to him flex like this. He must be very proud of his 'charming body' all these times. Namjoon suddenly took my hand and led me from the desk to make me sit on the edge of his bed, so I unsurely glanced at his flustered face as he stood before me. I don't think he's in his right mind...? Should I leave?

"I'll undress you whenever you run out of breath, okay?" Namjoon whispered, leaning forward to stare at me with a seductive gaze. What did he say...?

"What-" I asked, unsurely glancing at him but was immediately cut short when Namjoon pinned his lips against mine. I gripped the bedsheet in panic as he deeply kissed me until I felt myself panting for air. Namjoon suddenly pulled away to stare at me with his sexy dragon eyes. I was too stunned to respond to his daring kiss. There was a shocked silence between us as I perched intensely on the bed with a stiff body.

"Do you need to catch your breath?" He asked. I frowned at him and nodded when he suddenly leaned forward to unclasp my strapless bra from behind my back. I froze in my seat when I felt my bra slipping from its position and glanced down to watch him draw my bra from under my dress. He effortlessly tossed it aside. Shit. What the hell???

"I'm confused-" I glanced at my bra on the floor when he suddenly leaned forward to kiss me again. I was caught off guard by his swift movement, so I unconsciously gripped his thick forearm with my eyes screwed shut. I leaned my body back against the mattress to pull away from his assertive behavior with my eyes wide open as Namjoon traced his lips over mine at a strangely hot pace. I tried not to express my discomfort as he made out with me but gave in when he grabbed the back of my head to draw my face back toward his. The slow kiss was innocent as he softly stroked my lips with his... until he tilted my chin upward to insert his tongue into mine. Namjoon drew his moist lips away from mine again when he noticed I was clawing his forearm, desperately pleading for a break. Is this how he usually plays with women? I uneasily bit my lips as he gazed into my eyes with a sly smirk. He's so cocky.

"You're out of breath again," He smiled, slowly placing his hands on the hem of my dress without asking for my consent. I gripped the bedsheet, uneasily glancing down to find Namjoon's slender fingers slipping under my dress. I shivered at the presence of his touch as his fingertips skated up my thighs to reach my waist beneath the thin fabric. He hooked his fingers onto my pantie straps and slowly tugged it from under my short dress. I pursed my lips as I watched him draw my panties down my thighs until they slipped off my ankles. I twisted my legs uncomfortably when I felt the rush of cold air over my crotch. Fuck... He's stripping me!

"You're naughty," I whispered as he stared at my panties before averting his hungry eyes back to mine.

"We're playing dress-up in my bedroom," Namjoon smirked, dropping my panties to the floor, and tried to kiss me again when I poked his forehead with my index finger to hold him back. Did he think he could do whatever he wanted with me?

"It's unfair to strip me like this. If you want to play, then give me a chance to make a move too," I smiled, gently poking his cute dimple with my eyebrow raised. I won't submit to him.

"Okay. Make your move then," Namjoon nodded, so I hastily wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him forward until we both dropped back onto the bed. Namjoon was clearly startled by my aggressive action, but he quickly caught up with my game and pinned me down on the mattress while we kissed. I gripped his arm in shock when he suddenly shoved his knee against my crotch to stimulate me instead of touching me.

"Oh? You're cheating!" I moaned when he sensually rubbed his knee between my thighs to keep my legs open. I panted at his teasing strokes and tilted my head back when he suddenly slipped my dress off my body until I was fully naked beneath him. Namjoon smiled and leaned down to close the gap between our bodies again. And he was pretty much... very impatient with my body. He started thrusting right after insertion without proper foreplay, so I was slightly unprepared for him. But I didn't complain and eventually caught up with his pace as he worked his body over mine. Namjoon was a bit stiff at first... and only remained in a missionary position until he finished after a good twenty minutes of repeated penetration. He didn't even converse with me and kept thrusting between my legs until he loaded his discharge inside me. I didn't finish yet, so I flipped him over to take control of his body and took care of myself until I orgasmed, eventually passing out on his bed.

I thought he was an experienced man with his hot foreplay, but I was wrong... he was a skilled virgin. He must've fantasized about it a lot. Our sex was like a match on fire... it was so sudden and brief- I didn't even have time to relish the pleasure. Namjoon didn't even bother to clean up after our intercourse, so I had to clean up myself. Well, I can't blame him. It was his first time. At least he's a good kisser. I've had all three brothers, and in the end... the only man I yearned for is Taehyung. The sex is good with Seokjin and Namjoon, but something was... missing from it.

It was love. Love is missing, and therefore... I was left unsatisfied.

I rolled over on the mattress to sleep on my side, quietly staring at Namjoon's peaceful face in regret. I shouldn't be doing this to Taehyung. His older brothers love to play games in bed... except the youngest one. Taehyung is much more vocal and interactive in bed. He'd laugh... and converse with me to ensure I was enjoying our moment. He'd teased me and fool around the bed to lighten the mood, and finally... he would never fall asleep right after we finished. The first thing he'd do is kiss me to get our aftertastes. His lips... so addictive and sweet, and then he'd give me a forehead kiss before getting up to clean up our mess. We'd clean up ourselves and fall asleep afterward when we were clean and calm. I was always the one falling asleep in his arms while he cuddled me. There was so much love between us and I can't find it in anyone else. I exhaled and turned to look at the ceiling in defeat.

I'm searching for a dead man in other men.

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Present

We stood in utter shock with our eyes fixed on Taehyung as he sat in his wheelchair by the opened window. One of the two maids suddenly fainted after seeing Taehyung and dropped right onto the wooden floor. The other maid gasped and knelt down to help her fellow friend in panic before glancing back at Taehyung with her frightened eyes.

"How is this possible?" Seokjin whispered, carefully approaching his younger brother with a blood-drained face. I glanced at Hyeri's nervous behavior as she stood by the doorway with her hands clasped together.

"Taehyung? What happened???" I questioned, hurrying toward him to grab his shoulders as he sat in the wheelchair. Taehyung stared at me with a blank face as I anxiously knelt before him to examine his boney cheekbones. Why is he so skinny? I pulled him into a tight hug when he wouldn't respond to me until I smelt his familiar soothing scent and gripped tightly onto his body. I finally pulled away to stare at him in tears when I realized he wasn't hugging me back. Why isn't he responding to me???

"Taehyung?! Speak to me!" I encouraged impatiently, slightly shaking Taehyung's shoulders to wake him up from his headspace. He blinked at me, but there was something strange about his expression. He seemed... senseless? As if he's an empty shell.

"What's the matter with him???" Seokjin turned to question Hyeri for explanations.

"He's paralyzed," Hyeri whispered, anxiously approaching us.

"Moh?!" I snapped my head towards her. He's what-

"His lower half body is paralyzed," Hyeri pursed her lips sadly. I turned to look at Taehyung in disbelief. Taehyung is disabled?

"But how did he end up here!? He's supposed to be dead!" Seokjin frowned at Hyeri. Right? Why is he alive when we've already accepted his death?

"I- I don't know. I was assigned to care for Taehyung a few weeks ago. Your mother restricted me from telling anyone about his welfare," Hyeri glanced at Taehyung uneasily as he remained motionless on the wheelchair. Seokjin sighed in frustration before turning around to rest his hands on his hips as the fallen maid struggled to sit up on the floor after regaining her consciousness. Even the maids weren't aware of Taehyung's existence.

I turned back to stare at Taehyung's hopeless condition with a slight frown and slowly placed my palm against his cheek to remind him of my warmth. Seokjin eventually escorted the fallen nurse back to the ground floor and returned to the room because he wanted to speak in private. Hyeri sat guiltily in the corner of the room as I gripped tightly onto Taehyung's hand to study his disinterested eyes.

"Taehyung. It was you last night, right? You brought my ring with you. It was you at the cremation house," I questioned, eagerly searching Taehyung's blank eyes for a response. But no matter what I said... he wouldn't speak with me. He blinked from time to time, but his body remained unoccupied... like an empty vessel. Can he even hear me???

"Eomma has been hiding Taehyung from me? Does Namjoon know?" Seokjin frowned, turning to stare at Hyeri with an uptight frown. She nervously rubbed her fingers and glanced at Taehyung with a guilty expression.

"He does. Namjoon often visits his younger brother," Hyeri confessed. My heart thumped in shock. What? Namjoon knew Taehyung was alive!? Why would he lie to Seokjin and me!?

"The hospital declared his death!" Seokjin snapped at Hyeri in frustration. She fired us an annoyed expression. It's really difficult for us to deal with this information! We're both very torn by this shocking discovery!

"I don't know! I thought he died too! I even attended his funeral with Jungkook! I didn't know he was still alive until Namjoon asked me to work at the mansion! He said he'll help Jungkook's family avoid trouble at the corporation if I keep this a secret! I'm only here to care for him!" Hyeri shrugged in irritation. I can't blame Hyeri for this. She's only fulfilling her duty as a caretaker.

"Namjoon knew..." I whispered, turning back to stare at Taehyung's yellowish skin in horror. What's Namjoon's motive? Why would he help his mother hide his own brother!?

"And if he's paralyzed... Then why can't he talk?" Seokjin questioned as he observed Taehyung's soulless body.

"The doctor claims he's suffering from severe trauma. That's why he's not speaking. He wouldn't talk with anyone or even move..." Hyeri exhaled, hopelessly shaking her head at Taehyung's unfortunate condition.

"That doesn't make sense. Taehyung turned his head last night! Taehyung! Speak to me! I'm here! Can you hear me??? Look at me! It's me- Jiyoung! Can you recognize me???" I shook my head at Hyeri doubtfully before turning to hold Taehyung's face between my palms, and yet... Taehyung remained stiff in his wheelchair. I grew hushed as I desperately searched his eyes for any hint of emotions... but it was... painfully vacant. Nothing. He didn't react to my pleads at all. I gripped his shirt with a baffled yet pained expression as I gazed at his empty face. Maybe he's not talking because of Hyeri and Seokjin. I'll come back another time.

Seokjin took me back home afterward. We didn't talk on our way to the villa until we arrived at my parent's place. I can't be in shock for too long- Whatever is happening- I have to figure it out, and I'll stay calm until I uncover the truth behind everything. Mrs. Kim has been hiding Taehyung from us... Why? Why would she do that, and why was Namjoon helping her? I can't deal with this alone, so I need external aid without getting caught by the vultures. Who will help me?

Fast Forward

"Moh? How is that possible???" Changwon frowned at me as we sat at a cafe. I asked him to take me out of the villa because I didn't want to speak about the matter at home.

"Taehyung is alive. Breathing. Hyeri claimed he's paralyzed. It doesn't make sense. Taehyung turned to look at me the night we visited the cremation house!" I firmly stared at Changwon, unconvinced by Taehyung's strange behavior at the mansion. The other moments might've been a bad dream, but I wasn't dreaming that night! Changwon was there with me, and he even found my engagement ring! It's real.

"He's paralyzed? Give me the full detail," Changwon frowned as he sipped his americano with a keen frown.

"Hyeri claimed the lower half of his body is paralyzed," I shrugged.

"If only half of his body is paralyzed from the bullet in his back... Then why can't he move his upper body? And why can't he speak? From a professional viewpoint- I don't think his injury will ever affect his ability to speak," Changwon nodded while brainstorming Taehyung's illness with an uncertain expression.

"Right??? Taehyung turned to look at me that night. I saw it with my own eyes," I sighed while rubbing my face in frustration. I don't understand. He could turn that night, so why is he stiff now?

"Maybe he's frightened," Changwon finally suggested.

"Frightened? Hyeri told me he's severely traumatized by the incident," I lifted my sulky face to look at him.

"It might be possible, or maybe he's frightened of something else. Maybe he can't speak to you freely because there are other people around you. Why don't you try seeing him in secret? Maybe that's why he's been leaving you hints to find him. Why else would he drop your ring? He's trying to communicate with you," Changwon explained. I pursed my lips with my eyes fixed on the table. Taehyung was trying to reach me all these times? Did he really leave behind our engagement ring on purpose?

"I'll try, but did you find my father's file?" I asked, looking up at Changwon as he stirred his cup.

"Yeah. I can't bring it here, so I'll make a soft copy of all the records. Your father had a personal doctor when he was wealthy," Changwon nodded at me.

"November 15. The day my father passed away-"

"He didn't pass away on that day. I verified it. The medical report claimed he was in a stable condition. Your father suffered a few broken ribs, a fractured spine, and skull, but the injuries were not life-threatening. He wasn't even on life support because his injuries were mild," Changwon informed. Seokjin was telling the truth then? What the hell? So my father didn't die that day?

"But the hospital claimed he died-"

"Yeah. Your father passed away that same night due to a stroke... five hours after he was transferred to the resting room," Changwon nodded at me. What? He had a stroke???

"What happened-"

"I don't know. The medical record was weirdly vague, so I suspect it's not the original record. The files I found were written months after your father passed away which is very unusual since we're required to type up a report within three days after every medical procedure. I think the original report was replaced," Changwon explained. Five hours. What really happened during those five hours? Did my mother visit him?

"You said my father has a personal doctor, right? Can you find his identity? If the man is still working at the hospital?" I asked, eagerly leaning over the table to stare at Changwin's worried expression. It's been ten years... the man might be dead by now.

"Jiyoung, I don't want to sound nosy, but why are you so curious-"

"I think my father was murdered that night by someone," I whispered. Appa never died because of the accident! Taehyung didn't kill him, and Changwon confirmed that! It's someone else! That's why Seokjin made the court dismiss the case because my father was never killed in the accident! Seokjin was protecting Taehyung's innocence!

"Okay. I'll find the doctor's contact. This is quite fun. It feels like we're secret investigators on a mission to unveil an unresolved crime!" Changwon eagerly smiled.

A moment later...

"Jiyoung. Can I have a word with you?" My stepfather called from his private gym room after we returned to the villa. Changwon glanced at me unsurely, so I nodded at Changwon to assure him I'll be fine before walking off toward the ground-floor gym. I carefully opened the door to find my stepfather walking on the treadmill in his sportswear.

"What is it?" I asked while standing before the door with my hands clasped together.

"How are things working out with Seokjin?" My stepfather asked as he adjusted the treadmill to slow down the pace.

"Does it matter?" I asked shortly.

"I let you off the last time you fooled around with his brother but not anymore. Get married with Seokjin no matter what, or I'll have to intervene," My stepfather exhaled when the treadmill timer finally stopped. He sighed and turned to look at me with sweats all over his face, panting softly to catch his breath. I hope he gets a stroke and dies a terrible death!

"Intervene? You don't have the right-"

"You possess too many shares without proper knowledge in the corporation, so let Seokjin help you handle it. Or I'll take over all of your dead boy's share," My stepfather warned. I kept a straight face as he dabbed his neck with a hand towel to absorb his trickling sweat. Eomma is right. He will seize my assets if I don't get married.

"Why does it have to be Seokjin?" I asked.

"Seokjin's family is the reason I got the chairman position in the corporation, and he likes you. Stop asking repetitive questions to avoid the truth. I'm growing restless," My stepfather fired me a deadly glare. He wants to solidify his connection with Seokjin's family to gain political support from the government. I'm not even his daughter, but he's steering my head around like I'm his own? Fucking bastard. I left the room afterward.

Fast Forward

"What are you doing? Sign the deal," Eomma nudged my shoulder, causing me to blink out of my thoughts as we sat at the meeting table with everyone else. I glanced down at the paper before averting my eyes to Namjoon. He was staring at me from across the table with a questioning look. I need to confront him about Taehyung.

"Do you have a problem with the terms? We should let her speak her thoughts," Seokjin weakly patted my hand as I sat beside him. I glanced at the fund paper and back at everyone. My stepfather is right about this. I don't even know the basics of the corporation, so how will I protect my assets when I'm this clueless? I can't fake-pretend like I used to, and I don't trust anyone around me, so I can't receive trustworthy advice from anyone. Appa... I need your help.

"It's safe," Secretary Yoo mouthed me as he stood behind Namjoon with a weak smile. I glanced at the paper and lowered my pen to sign the deal without speaking with anyone. Secretary Yoo circled the table and tried to retrieve the document when I suddenly clutched the file to stop him from taking it away.

"I will agree with the deal if you let me see Taehyung," I whispered, staring straight at Mrs. Kim from across the table with a stern look. Seokjin glanced at me in surprise as Namjoon raised his eyebrows at my absurd condition. My parents seemed confused by the statement but didn't say anything as they exchanged awkward glances.

"What do you mean? Of course, you're free to visit Taehyung's grave-"

"I might not know why you and the president is hiding Taehyung from me, but I want to see him, so stop playing dumb with me. He's paralyzed, right? Then let me see him. Why are you so afraid- when he can't even talk or budge an inch?" I confronted them. Mrs. Kim's face turned pale at the sudden exposure of her crime before glancing at Namjoon's startled expression.

"Taehyung is alive?" Eomma gasped, turning to look at Kim in shock. The Kim's face turned even paler. They couldn't utter a single word to counter me as my parents anticipated the Kim's response to the dire situation. Seokjin was furiously glaring at Namjoon with a disappointed look. Why are they hiding Taehyung from Seokjin? The heir? What kind of schemes are they up to, and why is Taehyung muted? Whatever it is- I will find out.

"Fine," Mr. Kim gritted, nodding at me in defeat. My parents gasped in bewilderment when they realized Taehyung is still alive. He's held captive at Kim's mansion, and I can't get him back until Taehyung speaks to me.

"I will excuse myself for some fresh air as instructed by my doctor," I smiled at Mrs. Kim's spiteful eyes and left the room. I headed up to the corporation rooftop garden for some refreshing air as I sat on the bench with my eyes closed. The yolky sun is setting over the exhausted city, and I'm feeling very stuffy about everything around me. Someone suddenly approaches me with a coffee bottle in his hand.

"I didn't expect a text from the shareholder," Hoseok smiled, sitting down beside me. I accepted the drink from him and turned to stare at the dim afternoon sky with a discouraging feeling. I'm hopeless. I don't think I can win this fight.

"Are you really working against my parents?" I whispered while trailing my eyes after the flock of birds as they soared across the vast lilac sky.

"I am. We're getting close-"

"What about the Kims? What if whatever you're searching for is associated with the Kims?" I asked, turning to stare at Hoseok. I need Hoseok by my side to keep me stable in the corporation.

"The Kims? Well... They're accepting illegal funds, but Namjoon and I have agreed to disable your father first, so I'm not too focused on them. Is there a problem?" Hoseok questioned, unsurely looking at me.

"Kim Taehyung is alive," I muttered. I need to get the news out so they can't harm Taehyung or use him to threaten me. Everyone has to know the truth.

"What?" Hoseok gasped in surprise.

"He's being held captive in his parent's place," I exhaled. Hoseok studied my grumpy mood with a sore expression, eventually turning to look at the gloomy sky to ponder his thoughts. There was a long silence between us.

"It was Namjoon's plan to save Taehyung's shares," Hoseok nodded after he understood the situation. I blinked and turned to look at Hoseok for an explanation.

"Save Taehyung's shares?" I frowned. What is he talking about?

"Your parents are urging you to marry Seokjin, right? The Kim is trying to claim Taehyung's money," Hoseok muttered.

"I don't get it," I frowned at him. Taehyung's asset is mine.

"Taehyung is independent of his parents, Jiyoung. None of his assets belong to them. Kim Taehyung left everything in your name so tell me why they want you to marry Seokjin? So you'll legally become a part of their family. Taehyung's assets will merge with theirs through the marriage. Seokjin will probably take over your assets as your husband. And he'll give his parents full control after you're wedded. Namjoon and his mother are keeping Taehyung hidden from you so you wouldn't waver. They're scamming you into a marriage," Hoseok shook his head. I felt as if I was wide awake after Hoseok's interpretation of the situation. Namjoon is trying to claim his younger brother's assets...?

"Wait-"

"Yeah. Once Seokjin has access to your assets after the marriage, their family will take over everything. Namjoon will probably earn a part of Taehyung's acquisitions," Hoseok nodded. I unblinkingly stared at Hoseok's anxious expression in shock. This can't be real-

"But my parents will not benefit-"

"Your parents believe the marriage will change the Kim's mind because they think you can somehow seduce Seokjin and turn him against his family. If you succeed, many of Seokjin's personally owned corporations will significantly benefit your stepfather. Both sides are greedy for money, so it really depends on where Seokjin stands after your marriage. Your stepfather is using you to chain Seokjin, and The Kim is using Seokjin to legalize their claim over Taehyung's assets," Hoseok interrupted me. I glanced down at my hands. Was Taehyung's death intentional? Mrs. Kim tried to silence him because the witch knew he'd be too powerful if he remained independent from her.

"I want you to let everyone know that Taehyung is alive. Tell everyone he's being held captive by his parents. Can you do that? You can't take down one dragon. You have to take down both dragons to purge the corporation," I whispered, turning to look at Hoseok. One greedy dragon is led by a sick man while the other is being enhanced by a witch.

"What about you? Are you on good terms with Seokjin? Jiyoung. At the end of the day... it's not about them. I will take care of the sinners, but what about you? What will you gain from this fight? Do you want Seokjin on your side? You're both used in the game by your families," Hoseok shook his head. Seokjin? We resolved our conflict, so am I going to abandon him? Is he willing to help me? I know he wants love- but that's just impossible because- Taehyung is alive.

"Taehyung is alive, and I'll do anything to fight for him," I sternly replied.

"Be logical with your decisions. If Kim Taehyung is really paralyzed and muted... he's as good as dead. Jiyoung. If I was you... I'd choose Seokjin and run away together from all this disorder. Leave the dragons to destroy one another. You're both wealthy, and he can lead, so follow him," Hoseok shook his head.

"You sound like you know Seokjin-"

"We used to be college buddies until he had a problem with his personal life, and we grew distant, but I know him. Seokjin is very competent. The only reason he lost to Namjoon during the thesis competition... was because Namjoon cheated," Hoseok muttered. I've never heard that story before.

"What thesis?" I asked, turning to look at Hoseok.

"It was the final assignment for the last academic year. Seokjin and Namjoon were the leading candidates in the race. They were head to head despite being brothers. I saw Seokjin's thesis, and I knew he'd win- but his mother leaked the heir's document to her second son. Namjoon took the opportunity to counter Seokjin and won the award. I heard Mrs. Kim speaking with Namjoon when I visited Seokjin to check on him," Hoseok sighed heavily. Huh?

"Why would she help Namjoon if Seokjin is the heir-"

"Mr. Kim said he'd let the winner control all of his corporations abroad. Seokjin didn't want to stay in Korea. He wanted to move abroad to focus on his mining startup, but his mother was against the idea. She wanted him to stay in Korea as the family heir, so she made a deal with Namjoon. She snitched on her son to help Namjoon win the competition, then gave Namjoon control over all the foreign corporations, just to keep Seokjin by her side. I never told Seokjin about it because I didn't want to interfere with their family affairs, but I always knew... Seokjin was the true winner in the game," Hoseok smiled. I glanced down at my hands to process my thoughts. I should speak with Seokjin then. We bid each other goodbye afterward and separated our ways to leave the corporation.

Fast Forward

I kept a low profile for a few weeks until Hoseok revealed Taehyung's existence to the world. Everyone was shocked by the news as expected. Mrs. Kim was super upset with the news but quickly debunked the scandal by claiming Taehyung was disabled. Taehyung doesn't deserve to live as a deadman for his family's benefit, so it's a huge relief to let everyone know.

"You should sleep," Seokjin suddenly spoke up, so I glanced from the desk to find him leaning against the doorway in his night robe.

"You're my father's number one fan," I smiled at his stacks of my father's books and articles in disbelief. He has every collection related to my father's triumphs in the industry. Seokjin agreed to let me use his private room whenever I needed, so I'd sometimes stay over at his place to dig through all the files.

"Of course. Your father is my role model," Seokjin exhaled, sitting beside me to flip through the magazine with a weak smile.

"I heard you lost a competition during your final year with Namjoon?" I asked, unsurely glancing at Seokjin's composed expression. His face suddenly dimmed at my words. Oh shit- Maybe I shouldn't have asked him that.

"Do you remember the day you gave me an umbrella? The day you found me weeping like a pathetic scumbag on the street? I lost to Namjoon that day. I wasn't too upset with the result at first... until I went to see Yeona at her apartment and walked in on her having sex with my younger brother. She was sucking his- She was giving him a blowjob. The same lips that kissed me- were all over my brother's dick. I was paralyzed, so I watched them- until they finished. I confronted them afterward and left. She told him I was better than her- That he was good at pleasing her and that I never cared about her needs. One harsh blow... in the face after another. How can she lie like that? I always made sure to please her, whether it was sexual or physical or emotional love... or needs. I always prioritized her importance. I couldn't bear the pain that day and broke down on the street after I left her place. But you found me. You became the only heartwarming memory that made me smile whenever I recalled the painful past. I like to think of you as a little joyful spark under the harsh rainstorm. You gave me hope," Seokjin sadly explained as he stared at my father's picture.

It's really hard to blame anyone after listening from Seokjin's perspective. The brothers had different stories to tell. No one lied because it's their own version of the truth. Seokjin lost to his brother after his mother betrayed him, only to find the woman he loves... sleeping with his brother. And Taehyung? He never told Seokjin Yeona was his girlfriend and slept with her without knowing she was still with Seokjin.

"Did you ever find out the reason... you lost to Namjoon?" I asked while flipping through the documents. I should tell him Hoseok's story.

"Yeah. I found out years later," Seokjin sighed heavily.

"You knew?" I turned to look at him in surprise.

"Eomma helped Namjoon. I wanted to move abroad even after I lost to Namjoon, but eomma kept objecting my proposal. She told me the truth. Eomma didn't want me to leave her side, so I eventually stayed and applied for the president position," Seokjin nodded. I stared at him in silence. She failed all of his business proposals to keep him by her side?

"Taehyung never told you about the love complications, right?" I whispered. Seokjin glanced at me with a questioning look.

"What love complications?" Seokjin asked.

"Yeona was his girlfriend. She cheated on Taehyung to be with you, then came back to him after you argued with her. He thought she broke up with you that day- That's why he slept with her. Taehyung seemed guilty when he told me his side of the story. He said he didn't want to tell you because he didn't want to fight with his brother," I muttered. Seokjin glanced back at the article and stared at it without blinking as if to process his thoughts.

"Would it have made a difference if I talked to my own brother instead of making selfish assumptions?" Seokjin whispered in guilt.

"You two care about each other a lot. You care about your younger brother, and he cares about you too- It's just that I think you don't express it well, but it's there. Your family love for one another," I exhaled, reaching out to squeeze Seokjin's warm hand.

"I never saw Taehyung as my enemy. I never hated him either. It was just hard for me to digest everything after my girlfriend cheated on me," Seokjin whispered, slightly shaking his head.

"I don't think he hates you either. You're having problems with Taehyung because of a woman, Namjoon, and your family. I don't want to make the same mistakes as Yeona by being indecisive. I don't want to run back and forth between you and Taehyung just because I can. I know you don't want it either, so I have to tell you that- a part of me cares a lot about Taehyung. And despite all our fights and arguments... I care about you too. I'd trust you with my life... but the way I care about you isn't the same as the way I care for Taehyung. It doesn't make you any less worthy to me- just because I love Taehyung romantically. Seokjin, you're just as worthy as him- It's just that I feel more connected with Taehyung. I know it's hard to take in, but I really want you to know the truth. I feel good about us, but just not in a romantic way," I confessed. I hate misunderstandings, and I'm tired of fighting with Seokjin over stupid love problems. It's meaningless. He can't keep pushing me, and I can't keep forcing myself to love him either. I'm afraid it'll trigger a greater tragedy if I don't make up my mind now.

"Even if Taehyung is paralyzed? You know he's like a dead man except for the fact that he's breathing, right? His condition will engulf you with guilt and pain whenever you lay eyes on him. Are you sure you can live like that?" Seokjin turned to frown at me.

"I know. I know Taheyung is helpless, and it kills me every time to watch him, but that's my undeniable feeling for him. I might be uncertain about our forced relationship right now. But I might also fall in love with you in the future, and we'll get married. Sure. That's possible but right now... at this very moment... I am still attached to Taehyung, and I want to be on his side until I'm ready to move forward. I don't want to hurt your feelings," I sadly shook my head. Seokjin blinked at me with a sulky expression and finally nodded at my statements.

"I understand. I'm not against you seeing Taehyung. You're right. We shouldn't force love to grow in us. It's absurd to claim we're in love with each other after the endless problems between us. I can't lie and say I'm in love with you either... but I want you to know that I am willing to be your love candidate whenever you're ready. I'll take the challenge whenever we're both ready, so don't feel too pressured. I'm glad you're honest with me... it's a relief, really. It's difficult to focus on love when there are so many problems around us so let's just settle the issues first," Seokjin agreed, flipping his palm over to interlace his finegrs with mine. I weakly smiled at his soft eyes as we sat at the desk together.

"Why don't we focus on a common problem?" I suggested, tilting my head to smile at him.

"A common problem?" Seokjin asked.

"My father's death. You're curious about it too. Right? I'm not forcing you to help me, but-"

"No. Of course, I'll join you. I really want to find the culprit behind his death as well," Seokjin shook his head.

"Okay. That's great. Let's figure this out together. Why were you at the hospital that night?" I asked, turning back to flip through the files.

"Eomma was sick. She needed emergency surgery, so I was there to wait for her and was wandering around when I noticed your father sitting on his bed," Seokjin shrugged.

"Changwon told me my father passed away five hours after he was treated. He suffered a few broken ribs, fractured spine, and skull, but he was in a stable condition," I replied, turning to gaze at Seokjin.

"He was alive and well. We even chatted," Seokjin nodded.

"Something must've happened during that crucial five hours. I got Changwon to search for the doctor in charge of his treatment," I crossed my arms with a questioning look. Seokjin and I tried to exchange as much information as we could to piece the missing puzzles together, but there were still too many blind spots. We have to uncover more information.

Fast Forward

"Seokjin!" I waved, slightly jogging towards him as he sat at a picnic field with another person. I halted when I noticed the wheelchair and glanced at the man sitting under the tree.

"Oh! Jiyoung! I wanted to take Taehyung out for some fresh air. His skin was awfully pale so I'm loading him up with vitamin D," Seokjin nodded at his brother. I uneasily brought the picnic basket towards them. Seokjin asked me to go on a date with him, but he didn't tell me Taehyung would be here. I've attempted to speak with Taehyung countless times... but sadly... he never responded and would stare in the distance with his listless eyes.

"Your mother allowed him out here? And why are you dressed in your formal attire? Do you have work?" I smiled, uneasily sitting down on the mat while eyeing his neat suit.

"I'm a bit busy... but I didn't want Taehyung to spend his time inside the chamber, so I called you..." Seokjin pursed his lips, uneasily glancing at me. I frowned at his face when he suddenly got up to beckon me away. I followed him away from the tree until we were far from Taehyung.

"Do you want me to babysit him?" I asked, unsurely staring at Seokjin's wary expression.

"I think Taehyung is not muted," Seokjin eagerly turned to stare at me.

"What? I've tried to speak with him so many times. He wouldn't respond even if it's just... me and him," I shook my head. Seokjin rubbed his lower chin while shaking his head at my assumption.

"Maybe it's because he's at the mansion. I brought him out here so he wouldn't feel too pressured. Try speaking to him again. We need to know what happened," Seokjin shook his head. I glanced at Taehyung's helpless state, who was lifelessly leaning against the tree like a doll with his legs extended outward.

"Okay. Go to work. I'll keep Taehyung company," I patted Seokjin's forearm. He gave me a warm hug before leaving in his car, so I gradually walked back toward Taehyung to sit with him as little kids skipped over the emerald grass. There were a few other families on the field. The sky was cloudy, so it wasn't hot, and the area was pretty windy too. The weather is very healing.

"It's been a while since I last visited you," I smiled, gently brushing Taehyung's wild hair from his eyes to help him see properly, but he wouldn't look at me no matter what I did. I shrugged and ate the food I prepared because I didn't know what to say. He will never speak with me, and it's annoying, but I can't do anything about it. I turned to look at Taehyung again after I finished my sandwich with a gloomy expression.

"Why won't you speak with me? Do you need a kiss to awaken the sleeping prince?" I teased, leaning forward to grip his face and gently pecked his chapped lips. Taehyung didn't respond and sat motionlessly, so I pouted and pulled away in defeat. What should I do? I glanced at his cute teddy bear socks and carefully pulled a side off his feet.

"If you won't speak, then show me some sign of life," I whispered, evilly picking up a leaf to tickle his bare feet with an excited grin. I gently grazed the leaf over his feet with an eager smile. This should provoke him! And yet... he wouldn't react to it. I gave up and impatiently scratched his bare feet with my hand instead to intensify the ticklish sensation with an excited grin- No response. Taehyung remained dull and empty. He didn't even twitch his toes.

"His bottom half is paralyzed. Right. He can't feel anything," I muttered when I realized my stupid attempt. I'm so dumb! How can he feel anything if he's paralyzed?

"Whatever. I'll just sleep on your lap! It won't numb your muscles, right? Since you can't feel anything?" I chuckled, laying down to rest my head on his lap. I turned on my back to stare at his face from below and extended my hand to rub his firm cheek.

"I miss you a lot. I don't know why you're like this. But if it has anything to do with the guilt of hurting my father... It wasn't you who killed him that night. My father was well and alive until someone else killed him at the hospital. It wasn't your fault Taehyung-ah... and I don't blame you. I'm sorry for spitting hurtful words, so speak to me. I'll make it up to you. You don't have to be afraid," I whispered, softly rubbing his firm cheek with my sad eyes fixed on his, but Taehyung was very stubborn. He ignored my sentimental words and blinked as if he couldn't hear me at all.

I sighed and closed my eyes to rest under the tree with him until I accidentally fell asleep. It was very soothing because the wind was subtle and breezy... but my nap was eventually disturbed by the buzzing bees. I screwed my face in annoyance, lightly swatting the bees away from my face when they wouldn't stop bothering me and finally opened my eyes to squint at the bright sky. Taehyung was still sitting against the tree, so I exhaled and turned to lay on my side when I noticed our fingers were interlaced over my chest. Did I hold his hand before I fell asleep? I shook my head to shake off the thoughts and gently kissed his hand before turning to watch the little kids.

"You know I was pregnant with your child, right? I forgot to tell you, but I was three months pregnant with our baby after you passed away. We could've had a family... pretty children and a warm home together. But the world sucks. I lost you, and I lost our baby too. I had a miscarriage. It broke my heart. I wanted to have a good life with you. I really did," I whispered as we listened to the cheerful echoes of the kids' laughter. I often caught myself daydreaming... after losing our child. I never revealed my guilt, but I think about our nonexisting family a lot. It would've been nice to have Taehyung by my side during my pregnancy... to raise our own child... live in a peaceful home. Just us and our kids.

It's a happy-ending story I desire.

"What are you doing here?! Taehyung isn't supposed to be outside without his caretaker!" A familiar voice screeched, so I quickly sat up to find Mrs. Kim glaring at me as she strode toward us with her bodyguards.

"Seokjin wanted Taehyung-"

"Without my permission?! Take him back home!" Mrs. Kim rudely interrupted me. The guards quickly walked forward to heave Taehyung's heavy body off the ground, so I had to release his hand from mine with a dim expression.

"I'll visit you later," I sighed, leaning forward to kiss Taehyung on his forehead after they placed him back on the wheelchair. Mrs. Kim fired me an irritated glare before leaving with Taehyung and pushed his wheelchair back to their car. I sighed and sat down on the mat in defeat. What do I have to do to get him to speak with me??? I've been too patient with him! It's annoying!

Fast Forward

I got out of Hoseok's car after arriving at the peaceful neighborhood with my eyes narrowed on the ordinary villa as Hoseok circled the car to stand by my side. Yoongi and Jimin hopped out of the back seat with unsettled expressions. Han Byeongho. I found you.

"Okay. Here's the plan. We're pretending to be rookie journalists, alright?" Hoseok suddenly turned to look at us with a nervous expression.

"Do we look like a journalist to you?" Yoongi dawdles. Hoseok paused to look at Jimin and Yoongi's streetwear with a disappointed face.

"Why didn't you dress properly!? Stay outside then! You should've dressed like me!" Hoseok whined while poking his own coat to show off his civil clothes with a slight frown.

"Araso. We'll wait outside," Jimin bitterly glared at Hoseok. I exhaled and walked toward the front door with Hoseok in my classic outfit.

"I'll introduce myself first. Don't be awkward, okay?" Hoseok funnily warned me with an anxious expression. He's so timid. If it's anyone... he'll get us busted.

"Okay. You do the talking," I nodded after pressing the screen to ring the bell. Hoseok nervously glanced at the door with a pale expression. It's his first time doing unlawful things, huh?

"Who's there?" The man answered through the intercom.

"Good afternoon, sir! We're journalists sent by the city's hospital! We've emailed you in advance to notify you of our visit!" Hoseok beamed at the camera on the door. The man grew hushed on the other side, and the door finally opened after a minute of awkward silence.

"Anneonghaseyo!- " Hoseok quickly bowed by himself when the elderly man appeared. I stood with a dull face until Hoseok nudged my shoulder to remind me of our silly plan.

"Annyeonghaseyo," I slightly lowered my head without much interest as the elder man stood before us in his comfortable clothes. His hair was all ash gray and he was very chubby and small.

"You're the journalist-"

"N-Neh- I'm Choi Dohwan!" Hoseok nervously stuttered while gripping his sweaty hands. I chuckled at his humorous introduction, causing the man to glance at us with a skeptical expression. Dohwan? Did he just use a name from the famous drama?

"I'm Jang Sora," I smiled at the man. Hoseok turned to stare at me in shock and tried not to laugh. The man eyed our unprofessional impression with a wary expression, causing Hoseok to sweat in fear.

"I'm busy-"

"Sir! You agreed to let us interview you!" Hoseok gasped when the man tried to close the door.

"Go away! What are you- AH!" The man shook his head, roughly slamming the door in our faces but I was quicker. I kicked the door with all my might to counter the force, sending him tumbling backward at the violent impact. Hoseok wildly turned to me in shock as I stood before the wide-open door with my arms crossed. I don't have much time to fool around.

"Don't waste our time, old man," I exhaled, rudely striding into his house without his invitation as the man struggled to get up on the floor.

"Who are you!? How dare you break into my house! I'm calling the police!" The man grunted, frantically scrambling onto his feet to dial his phone as I glanced around the empty house with an unbothered expression. He shakily pressed his phone against his ear but froze in fear when he turned around to find a gun aimed... right at his forehead. Hoseok's jaw dropped as I raised the gun at the old punk's face with a blank expression.

"What are you doing?! This isn't a part of our plan!" Hoseok mouthed me in fear as he stood at the doorway like a frightened kid. I ignored Hoseok's startled reaction and averted my eyes to the terrified man.

"Hello. This is the police station-" The police answered the call as the man stood stiffly with his eyes fixed on the gun barrel in horror. I raised my eyebrow at him, slightly tapping the gun against his skull with a slight smile.

"Your daughter is home, right?" I whispered, nodding at the upper floor, causing the man's face to grow pale. The man shakily hung up on the call and lowered his phone in fear as I threatened him with the gun.

"Can we come in now???" Yoongi dawdled, strolling into the house with his hands in his pockets. Jimin chuckled at Hoseok's shaken reaction and gave him a slight pat before walking past Hoseok to enter the house after Yoongi.

"Who- are you?" The man stuttered. Jimin grabbed Hoseok's arm to pull him inside the house when he refused to budge and slammed the door shut behind them.

"Lee Jiyoung. Chairman Lee Hyunseung's daughter. Sounds familiar, Mr. Doctor?" I replied, shoving the gun at his forehead with my lethal eyes fixed on his. The man suddenly dropped his phone in horror when he recognized me.

"What do you want- AH!" The man gritted when Yoongi suddenly grabbed the back of his shirt, roughly dragging him into the living room to shove him on the couch. The former doctor quickly sat up to stare at us in fright as Jimin examined the cozy house with a slight smile.

"Did you kill my father that night?" I asked, slowly walking up to him with a deadly glare.

"M-Moh? Your father died before he reached the-"

"Liar! Tell me another lie, and I'll fucking kill you! Or... I'll take care of your sick daughter upstairs," I threatened, shoving the gun under his chin in anger. The man gripped the cushion in fear as he stared at my fierce pupils.

"Don't hurt my- daughter-"

"Then make sure to confess your crime," I spoke lowly as the man panted in fear on the couch. He fearfully glanced at the men inside the room before averting his eyes back to mine. I slowly pulled the gun away as he leaned against the couch with his stiff body while gawking at me in fear.

Fast Forward

I drunkenly walked toward the mansion after drowning my sorrow with strong liquors and forced the door open to find The Kim enjoying their warm tea time in the living room. Namjoon turned to look at my unexpected intrusion in confusion as I strolled inside with a whisky bottle clutched tightly in my hand.

"What are you doing here at this time-"

"Jiyoung! Stop!" Seokjin gasped, crashing into the living room with a bewildered expression as tears slipped from my tearful eyes.

"You fucking bitch-"

"Jiyoung! No! Please!- Listen to me-" Seokjin suddenly grabbed my cheeks to pin his lips against mine when I wouldn't stop thrashing in his embrace. I gripped his shirt in distress as I struggled to force him away from me. I'm done! I'm going to murder everyone in this house! I can't put up with this shit anymore!

"What's happening!?" Mrs. Kim frowned at us as Seokjin kissed me in panic to shush me.

"She's drunk! I'll take her to my room! We'll stay here tonight! Please bring her some warm soup!" Seokjin stuttered between his words as I pursed my lips to lick his saliva in tears. I tried to speak again when he suddenly covered my mouth to mute me and dragged me up the stairs to leave his parents' sight. Seokjin hastily took me to his bedroom, slamming the door shut to trap me inside his room with a frightened expression. I drunkenly stumbled away from him in tears when I felt my head tilting from side to side.

"Get out of my way!" I screamed in pain as he stood against the door.

"Jiyoung, you can't act on impulse-"

"She killed my father! How am I supposed to stay calm?!" I screamed in distress. The fucking witch took my precious father's life! I will fucking kill her with my own hands!

"She has Taehyung under her grip! Don't forget that! We have to bring Taehyung back first! Please- I'm sorry! Just please stay calm! I promise I'll fix this mess!" Seokjin gripped my shoulders with a worried expression when I tried to shove him out of my way. I pursed my trembling lips as tears flowed down my face and finally dropped the whisky bottle, causing it to shatter all over the floor.

"How long do I have to endure-"

"We have to be cautious. You know that, right? It's not just my mother... We have to disable your stepfather as well. We need to be rational, so please- just hold it in a little longer," Seokjin shook his head as I stared at him in pain. I finally lowered my face to sob in distress. He pulled me into a crushing hug as I gripped onto his shirt.

"I'm in pain," I whispered as he held me tightly in his arms.

"I know. I know you're hurting. I'm right here with you," Seokjin nodded as he gently rocked me from side to side. I bawled at the top of my lungs against his warm chest as the anger and frustration leaked through my aching heart to sting my rotting soul until I grew weak from crying out loud. Seokjin lifted me off the floor to avoid the broken bottle shards and settled me on his bed after I stopped resisting him. He made me rest on his bed, so I sniffled and turned on my side to close my eyes until I fell into a deep sleep.

Seokjin left the mansion the next day for work after getting me a comfortable nightgown to change in. The Kims weren't present because they had a business trip and I was suffering from a bad hangover. Fuck. I nearly ruined our plan. I rubbed my face in distress and slowly walked towards Taehyung's room when Hyeri suddenly stepped out of the room.

"Visitors are not permitted to see Taehyung when Mrs. Kim is not present," Hyeri exhaled, blocking the door to stop me from entering the room.

"I want to see him. Just let me inside," I sighed with little to no energy left in my body. Hyeri studied my black circles with a worried frown.

"I can't. Not after what you did to Taehyung! Mrs. Kim will-"

"I won't hurt him. I promise," I reached out to hold Hyeri's hand to beg her. She glanced down at our hands and finally sighed in defeat, stepping aside to hold the door open for me.

"I'm supposed to give him a bath-"

"I'll do it," I volunteered. Hyeri exhaled and handed me a set of towels.

"I have a shift at the hospital, so I'll be back in the evening, and his mother usually visits him at 8:00 PM, so leave before she returns," Hyeri weakly smiled.

"Thank you-"

"Oh. One more thing. Help him relieve his discomfort. He's still sexually sensitive- He's been holding it in since he woke up from his coma," Hyeri patted my arm before walking off. I glanced at Hyeri, then averted my eyes to the clean towels in my hands. I entered the room to find Taehyung... resting in his massage chair instead of his usual wheelchair. They got him the machine to ease his numbed muscles.

"I'll take care of you today," I smiled as I carefully placed the towel on the window seat before turning to face him. Taehyung wasn't looking at me. He was staring out the window with his usual unenergetic gaze.

"You got another bruise? Why is your mother hitting you?" I frowned as I examined the bruise on his cheekbone. Taehyung's stepmother is still abusing him? Even when he's in this condition? She's a fucking witch.

I sighed in frustration after inspecting his face and carefully undid his pajamas to loosen his shirt as he lay on the massage chair. I took off his pants and boxers until he was resting... naked on the cushioned chair. He lost a lot of weight. I blinked out of my thoughts and walked away to soak the towel with scented water and body sanitizers in the sink, prepared by Hyeri earlier. I folded the towel to squeeze out the excess water and strode toward him to wipe his dehydrated skin with the damp towel.

"Oh? You're sleeping?" I froze when I realized Taehyung's eyes were closed. Why isn't he responding to me? I know he can move! I know he can speak! I shook the thoughts from my head and gently wiped his face to clean his pores before moving down to his neck. I dabbed his bare chest in silence after switching the towel before wiping his torso when I noticed goosebumps rising all over his firm skin. I lowered my face to examine his standing body hair before crouching down to stare at his legs. There are goosebumps over his thighs too. Can paralyzed people get goosebumps if they're paralyzed?

Exhaling, I stood back up to switch a new towel and gently ran the towel all over his legs and his private part to clean him. I pressed the touch screen to position the massage chair in a sitting position, gently tugging Taehyung's body forward to wipe his scarred back, then laid him back to let him rest in the chair. I wrestled with his legs to lift up his stiff muscles until sweat beads formed all over my forehead from lifting his heavy limbs. Taehyung remained on the massage machine with his eyes closed, softly breathing as I gave him a dry bath. It took me exactly an hour to wipe him clean and I'm out of breath. Why is it so exhausting?

I pulled clean sweatpants onto his hips before slipping a shirt over his head, carefully slipping his floppy arms through the sleeves. I lowered my hand to fix his button when I noticed his nipples getting hard, so I froze and glanced up at his calm expression unsurely. He can feel my touch when he's asleep? I gently placed my hand on his left pecs to feel his warm chest in silence until I felt his rapid heartbeat. His heart is racing. He's not asleep, is he? I glanced at his motionless eyelids as he softly breathed on the chair with his eyes closed.

"I'll shower quickly," I pretended not to notice the signs of his responsive body and left to shower in Seokjin's bathroom. I dried my hair and strolled back to Taehyung's room in my nightgown to find him staring at the ceiling. He's not pretending to sleep anymore?

"Are you uncomfortable? Let's sit you up," I muttered, clicking the screen to position the massage chair in a sitting position again. Taehyung's body looked stiff so I switched off the massager until the machine stopped kneading his body. The body massage machine transformed into a couch to let Taehyung ease his body on it. He was lifelessly staring out the window again.

There are a few things I haven't tried on him yet... and I'm convinced one of my strategies will work on him. I gently brushed his hair backward and finally crawled onto the massage chair with Taehyung to sit facing him on his thighs. I leaned forward to apply the cream on his bruised cheekbone before tossing the cream bottle aside and finally turned to look at his empty eyes. Okay. I'll try another method.

"I'm sorry for hurting you," I muttered, lowering my hand to hold his bandaged hand in guilt. I was in a bad mood the last time I visited him. I tried to get him to speak with me, but he refused- so I- I lost my mind and cut open his palm with a blade I found in his bathroom. I wanted him to show me signs of discomfort, but he didn't react to the pain... even as I was pushing the sharp blade deep into his raw flesh. His blood dripped all over his clothes that day, and I was in distress until Hyeri found me. Mrs. Kim was very furious with the injury I inflicted on him and tried to confront me. But thankfully, Hyeri took the blame and told Mrs. Kim it was her who hurt Taehyung by accident. That's why Hyeri was against me visiting Taehyung earlier.

I glanced away from his hand to stare at Taehyung's blank face and gently cupped his firm cheeks between my hands before leaning forward to kiss his unresponsive lips. I only wanted to peck him at first- until I felt his steady pants against my face. He's reminding me of our steamy moments. The way he used to hold me. The thrill of his stimulating touch over my body. The bed gripping pleasures between our active bodies. The steamy memories are driving my hormones through the roof. I slightly pulled away to look at his vacant eyes and leaned in for a deep kiss. He didn't respond and remained inflexible on the massage chair while I sat on his thighs until I felt my body begging for his touch.

"I really want you right now. Can't you hold me? Hmm? Taehyung, please..." I whispered against his lips as I held onto his cheeks. Taehyung stared at me with his unblinking eyes, refusing to touch me. I gripped his arms to encircle them around my waist. But he wouldn't hold on and flopped his forearms to the sides of the chairs, so I leaned forward to kiss him again as I carefully undid his shirt to push the satin fabric aside. Maybe this will work. I just need to arouse his body.

"Do you have any idea... How tormenting it was? For me to live without you? Without your touch?" I tilted my head to whisper in his ear as I roamed my fingers under his unbuttoned shirt to feel his toned muscles. Taehyung remained muted, so I gently bit his earlobe before sticking out my tongue to lick his ear. He can't hold it in forever. You have to submit to me. I gently nibbled his neck while gripping his wild hair between my fingers. Taehyung suddenly gulped while I was kissing his Adam apple. I paused at the slight movement. Did he just- I glanced at his blank face with a suspicious gaze, quickly lowering my lips to kiss his collarbone and slowly shifted my position to hover my face over his torso to please his sensitive spots. I tried to make him react again but it didn't work. Taehyung must've regained control of himself! I can't let him! I gripped tightly onto his forearm as I kissed his pecs... down to his abs and finally trailed my lips back to his neck until I met his chapped lips.

"Baby~ Just this once. Give in to me~ I really want you. You can do that for me, right? Hold me~ I want you to hold me," I whispered as I sensually rubbed his cheeks with my puppy eyes fixed on his dark eyes. His pupils suddenly dilated at my soft-spoken words. He's responding! Taehyung's body didn't react to my desperate call and remained unbothered even if I could feel his muscles tensing against me. I positioned my crotch over his to grind my panties over his bulge. This has to work- even if he's holding back! His body will respond to me.

"I can't hold it back anymore. If you won't respond to me, then I'll please our bodies. Okay?" I asked while I dry humping him in a taunting rhythm until I felt my sensitive area throbbing from the pleasure. I lowered my face to moan under my breath as I held onto his waist, sensually grinding my butt over him until I felt him getting hard under me. It's working! I lifted my face to stare at his dull face in confusion. He can feel me! But why isn't he responding? I shakily moaned and carefully undid my gown to reveal my firm breasts as I sat before him.

"Look at me. I know you want me~ Come on, baby. Just touch me..." I whispered as I sexily perched on his lap to rub our private parts until my face flushed red from the intense friction. Taehyung remained unresponsive as I teased our bodies. You won't touch me? Fine. I'll touch myself. So watch me. I grabbed my breast to fondle it before him, lustfully tilting my head back to reveal my arching body underneath my loose gown.

"Say something... or just hold me. Hmm?" I sensually whispered while staring straight at his blank eyes as I humped his hardened bulge with a thirsty gaze. His body is feverish. I can feel his body temperature rising with every hump. He's responding to me- I just have to try harder.

I hungrily lifted his hand to insert his fingers into my mouth, lustfully swirling my wet tongue around his fingers with my eyes fixed on Taehyung's blank stare. He loves to hear me moan, so I'll use that against him. I let out a muffled moan in difficulty while sucking his fingers like a pacifier when a sudden flash of emotion sparked in his eyes. He's aware...! He can feel me. Panting heavily, I eventually pulled his moist hand out of my lips and lowered it to place his unwounded palm against my breast to make him touch my warm flesh. Taehyung watched my lewd behavior without reacting, so I dropped his hand and slightly lifted my hips up to pull down his waistband until his boner slipped out from under his pants. I pursed my flushed cheek to stare at his hard private part. He's aroused. It worked. He's holding back now. I only need to make him lose control. I glanced at Taehyung with a suspicious expression.

"You want to play with me? Okay. I'll play with you," I whispered while taking off my panties. I slowly sat back down on his raw private part without penetration to rub my crotch over his boner. I moaned in distress when I felt our raw flesh rubbing over one another until the tingling sensation jolted throughout my entire body. His fingers are twitching at the intensity of the pleasure. I suddenly stopped moaning when I thought I saw his jaw muscles clenching and slowed down the pace of my hips to watch his oddly very stiff body. He's tense. I sighed and slowly reached down to slip him inside me. Here's the final move to defeat him.

"Ah~ How can you hold back like this? I'll make you feel good~ Baby- Just surrender already~" I moaned in distress when I felt him penetrating deep inside me. I gripped Taehyung's forearm as warm tears filled my eyes. I'm so satisfied. Shit. I'm so horny for him! I started to grind over him at a steady tempo to warm up our bodies, ultimately speeding up the pace to make love with him on the massage chair. Taehyung remained stiff on the chair, so I leaned forward to kiss his lips, stifling my moans in difficulty as I ran my fingers all over his bare chest until I felt his heart thumping hard against my palm. Hah. He's struggling to contain himself.

"It's okay~ Response to me~ I know you're holding it in~ Baby- just please thrust inside me~" I smirked while sucking his earlobe when he suddenly ejaculated inside me. I halted in shock and glanced down in disbelief at his unexpected surrender. Why did he finish so quickly? We barely started! I felt Taehyung easing his body against the massage chair, so I looked up at his flushed face in bewilderment. Did he let himself finish early to stop himself from losing control? I gripped his forearm and slowly lifted my hips upward to find his semen dripping between my thighs. Wah! This man! He's getting me on my nerves! I quickly got off his lap to clean the sticky substance from my crotch in his bathroom before returning to wipe his private clean. I lost to him. Fuck! I sighed in frustration after pulling his trouser back on.

"I guess I'm not worthy enough for you to hold me, huh?" I nodded in defeat, slowly crawling back onto his lap to sit on him after pulling my panties back on. I'm still throbbing for him, but he already finished early to prevent me from going any further. I didn't button up his shirt because I was feeling very bitter about his decision to ignore my needs. Sorely, I leaned my bare body under my loose gown against his pulsating chest to hug him in a sitting position. I really can't win him over, huh? Even with sex?

"It's okay if you don't want to hold me... I'll hold you then," I whispered, turning to look out the window as I rested my head sideways against his body. He'd usually hug me tight in this position, but I'm cold without his embrace right now. I eventually fell asleep with my bare chest pressed against his naked torso in our favorite position. It was a deep sleep, and his warmth was very calming. Can we stay like this forever?

I shuddered in my sleep when felt a soft graze over my back, so I unconsciously hugged him tighter as he gently grazed my back with his fingers until I felt goosebumps swelling all over my skin. My eyes suddenly flung open after a brief nap to find myself hugging Taehyung in a sitting position, so I sat up to stare at his dull expression in tears. I glanced down at my skin to find the goosebumps subsiding.

I'm not dreaming. He can move, and he was touching me while I was asleep...

"Why are you so mean? Say something to me!" I whined, gently smacking his chest in distress. I did everything I could to make him react, but he neglected all of my efforts! Why is he doing this?!

"What are you so afraid of? I've tried everything to bring you back! I told my father's death wasn't your fault! What other validations do you need from me!? Why did you make me find you if you don't want to see me anyways? Wae?!" I whimpered in tears while glaring at his blank eyes. Why is he hurting me like this? I tried to reach him countless times, but he wouldn't utter a single word!

"I guess all men do is lie about their love. If I was your priority, then you wouldn't treat me like this. Fine. Do you want to win me that badly? Try me!" I snapped, angrily getting off his lap to stomp toward the door. THUD. THUD. THUD. I strode toward the heavy wooden drawer to push it forward, but it was too heavy. I'll corner you! I grunted in distress as I shoved my body against the drawer until it slid across the floor to block the door. I will not surrender! I'm going to play with fire if that's what it'll take to snap him out of his stubborn pretentious acts! I quickly locked the door and shoved a pile of books under the door handle to stop outsiders from opening the door.

"I know you can speak, and I know you can move, so stop playing with me! I'm done! I'm done being patient with you! I can't live in guilt like this anymore!" I screamed as I furiously shoved the nightstand against the drawer to hold the door shut and stormed toward the window to bang the frames shut. BANG. I hastily locked all the windows and stormed into his bathroom to search for a sharp object. But Hyeri had already removed everything, so I turned to glare at the mirror in tears. Fuck! I snatched an antique statue from Taehyung's room and hurled it right into the mirror. CRASH. The glasses shattered violently at the impact- sending the shards showering all over the bathroom floor. I stepped over the piercing glasses to grab a sharp blade from the sink and stormed back toward Taehyung, who was still sitting on the massage chair with a dull expression. I will never lose to you!

"I won't hurt you, but I'll hurt myself. Do you want to play with me? I don't want to play childish game anymore, so... I'll play my final card to beat you even if it means sacrificing my life!" I threatened as I stood before him with the sharp mirror piece pressed against my neck. Taehyung didn't react and stared at me with his soulless eyes. Huh? You don't care? Okay.

"Okay. Taehyung, you're really playing crazy with me? I'll show you crazy," I smiled in tears at his unbothered expression and crawled onto his lap to sit facing him. No one is crazier than me! He's underestimating me!

"Watch me closely, okay? Wristing cutting is the most painful way to end one's misery, but I'll do it just for you, so watch me, alright? Watch. Me. Hurt. Myself. And. Don't. You. Fucking. Dare. Budge. An. Inch. Stay. In. Your. Fucking. Wheelchair. And. Watch. Me. Bleed. To. Death," I gritted word by word as I pressed the sharp glass against my wrist, slowly slitting the flesh open with the jagged blade, sending a jolt of ache down my arm. I gripped tightly onto the shard until my palm bled from the pressure as I slowly slit open my own wrist before his face. Blood began to trickle down my wrists as I raised my hand before his blank pupils. I'll let you watch me die just like what you did to me!

"No one can save me for your information. I've blocked the all the entrances," I whispered with angry tears, roughly clutching Taehyung's cheeks to turn his face towards the drawers, shoved securely against the door before turning his head back as the warm blood trickled from my wrist.

"It doesn't matter, does it? Hmm? I'm not worth your attention or love anymore? All these months... I've been grieving your loss... You never really cared about me, right? All men do is lie to me... it sucks. Our parents wanted me to marry your older brother, but I did whatever I could to stop it from happening for you... even when I thought you were dead. I never stopped loving you! But in the end- You fucking betrayed me like this! You don't even care about me anymore! I lived in guilt because I couldn't stop blaming myself for your death! I thought I was foolish, but no! It's you! You never loved me! You only wanted to fuck me! That's all there is to our love! And I was a fool to believe in you! You don't want us anymore... So what's the point of living? Hmm? If I stay alive... I'll be pregnant with your kid again because you cummed in me a moment ago. I don't want to raise a child on my own- so I'll just die now. I tried to kill myself before- but I never succeeded because I was careless! I'll make sure to succeed this time! At least I'll die in the arms of the man I love, right? I'm assured," I giggled like a madman, slowly glancing down at my bleeding wrist as heavy tears dripped over my cheeks. I wanted to scream in despair because the pain was stinging so much- I wanted it to stop the bleeding, but it was too late now.

"No one is home. Your parents are away... Your brothers are at work, and Hyeri left for her shift at the hospital. We're on the second floor in a sealed room. No one will find me for another few hours. It's enough time to let me bleed out, right? I'm not scared. I have you by my side, so I'll lay in your arms until I die," I smiled in tears as I rubbed his firm cheeks with my bloody hands to smudge his cheek with my dark blood. Taehyung's eyes were burning, but he refused to respond, so I leaned forward to kiss him with my trembling lips before pulling away to shift my position on his lap. I sat sideways on his thighs to face the window while leaning against his body, curled up against him with my bleeding wrist rested on my nightgown. I didn't say anything and held in the pain as pained tears flowed down my cheeks. My blood... soaking our clothes until it was sticky to the touch. It'll only take half an hour at most.

"The sky is getting dark, Taehyung-ah~ I really missed you. I wanted to grow old with you, but I can't do that now. I'm sorry. I tried to reach you... but you wouldn't accept my love, but that's alright. Just know that I love you... and I'll leave your sight if you don't want me anymore. I can't continue to live on anyways... so I'll die in your arms. Take care of yourself while I'm gone, okay? I can't come back to you after this... so I can't really tell you that I love you anymore. I hope you'll find the right woman for youself after I disappear from your life. Hopefully... someone who is perfect and flawless. I really thought... I'm a badass woman- hah- not until I met you. You really made me hope for forever... it's a shame when I don't even deserve a happy ending, right?" I whispered under my breath when I felt my head swaying dizzily. My eyes began to drop as I lay against his pulsating chest to listen to his rapid heartbeat. He's panicking.

"Taehyung??? Who's inside?! Open the door!" Someone called from the door when they couldn't open the door. I gripped Taehyung's shirt in tears and lowered my head to sob against his chest when I felt the pain over my wrist hurting like hell. I gritted my teeth and slowly looked up at Taehyung to find a stream of tears sliding down his firm cheeks.

"Only you will get to hear my farewell. Don't cry for me. Cry for a better woman, okay? A good man like you... deserves a good woman. You don't deserve a broken person like me. I'm worthless, so thank you... thank you for making me feel special, even if it was all temporary. I love you... Taehyung-ah~ I really love you. Please hold me like this until I leave," I shakily whispered as sweat beads formed over my forehead. My body is cold and numb, but my wrist is aching so badly. I won't scream. I'll hold it in until it's all over for me. Taehyung suddenly blinked... and a stream of tears rolled down his cheeks... dripping onto my face as I leaned against him in exhaustion.

"OPEN THE DOOR!" The person shouted. My eyes finally closed after a while, so I flopped weakly against his chest to get my last breath in tears. The room suddenly became blurry as I sat on Taehyung's lap when I felt his body vibrating... but I was too weak to open my eyes. An arm suddenly encircled my fading body as I slowly withered from the bright room.

"J-Jiyoung- Jiy-young? Ba- Baby?" Someone whispered over me. I tried to open my eyes again... but everything was a blur and out of focus. So I closed my eyes and turned my head to the side as the person clutched tightly onto my lifeless body. I can't feel anything anymore... My senses are slowly shutting down the more my blood leaked out of the open gash on my wrist.

"J-Jiyoung! Ha- Hajima! I'm sorry- J-Jiyoung- wake up! Baby! You're scaring me!" The panicking voice screamed in panic as he held onto me, but it was too late. I couldn't move my muscles or respond to his call no matter... how hard I fought to stay awake.

"No! No! No! I'm sorry!-- Jiyoung- I'm here! I'm so sorry! I LOVE YOU! JIYOUNG- WAKE UP! THIS CAN'T BE HAPPENING! DON'T DO THIS TO ME!- P-PLEASE DON'T LEAVE ME! I LOVE YOU! JIYOUNG?! BABY- I'M RIGHT HERE- PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE LOOK AT ME! DON'T LET GO OF ME!" He screamed in distress when I felt my body shivering at his broken voice. He gripped me tightly in his strong arms to secure my lifeless body, and I suddenly felt my body elevating upward... as if the person stood up. But everything was wildly spinning around me at the distorted vision and sound.

"Baby! Stay with me- I won't let you- leave me- Jiyoung-- please-" The distressing voice echoed in my head as the brightness inside the room dimmed from my vision. The only thing remembered was the comforting warmth over my cheeks and the familiar embrace...

The embrace I've been longing for.

I finally felt his love again before I dropped unconscious in his arms.

I won... and he lost.

I won his game.

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Omg! I'm so sorry for the extremely late update! T_T I was too busy with school and this chapter is crazy long T_T Did you enjoy the chapter? I hope you did! Thank you so much for your endless support! I am very grateful for your love and encouragement! Please take care of your health and stay safe! Happy Sunday! <3 I love you! Lmao, the chapter isn't so happy :/ maybe I shouldn't say happy day T_T Sorry!