Vengeance Is Mine | Kim Taehyung x Reader

chapter 10. video call

Saying Grace

We had our delicious ice cream and started heading back home. Jungkook asked if he could drive, and Jimin handed him the keys, sliding into the passenger seat. Taehyung and I settled in the back.

My mind drifted, replaying the choking grip of that man in the bar. Just remembering his hand around my throat sent shivers down my spine. My face went pale.

Taehyung noticed. Without a word, he reached out, gently guided my head to rest against his shoulder. I didn't protest. Truthfully, I needed it.

"Roof... I need air," I whispered.

Taehyung signaled Jimin, who silently opened the rooftop. Cool night air rushed in, brushing against my skin. None of us spoke. The whole ride back was wrapped in heavy silence.

When we reached home, Jimin and Taehyung helped me out even though I insisted I was fine.

Ian spotted me in the living room. His face lit up with a smile.
"Oh, you're back."

"Yeah," I sighed, forcing a smile. "Can I rest? I'm... kinda tired."

"Sure, bub." He hugged me softly.

"I'll rest up too," Jimin added quickly, almost too casually, making sure Ian didn't sense anything off.

I went straight to the bathroom. Stripping off, I scrubbed my skin raw under the shower, rubbing every inch until I felt the phantom touch was gone. When I finally stepped out, wrapped in a robe, I collapsed onto my bed. My body ached, my head heavy. Sleep dragged me under before I realized.

Meanwhile, Jungkook had gone into his room. Fresh from his shower, his damp hair clung to his forehead as he settled onto his bed. Ian was reading something nearby.

"Jungkook," Ian said suddenly, lowering the book.

Jungkook looked over. "Yeah?"

"How was today's work?"

The question made Jungkook tense, but he hid it with a quick smile. "It was fine. Why do you ask?"

Ian's eyes sharpened. "Is something wrong with Ellie?"

Jungkook stiffened. "N-no," he stuttered.

Ian scoffed, shutting his book. "Do you really think I wouldn't notice? She's my sister. Stop lying to my face." His eyes reddened. "She didn't drive her car today. That's not Ellie. Never in her life has she let anyone else drive. What are you hiding?"

Jungkook froze, torn. They had promised Ella not to tell him.

"Did she have a panic attack?" Ian demanded.

Jungkook's eyes widened. How could he know? His lips pressed into a thin line, his fingers fidgeting. Finally, he gave the smallest nod.

Ian sighed heavily, his voice breaking. "What did he do, Jungkook?"

Jungkook avoided his eyes.

"Did he touch her?" Ian's voice was low, dangerous.

Jungkook's pupils dilated. His expression gave away the truth. Finally, he whispered, "Yes... Ian."

Ian's fists clenched as he shot up. "How dare he touch her. I'll kill him!" He stormed toward the door, but Jungkook grabbed him, holding him back with both hands.

"Ian—listen. We took care of him. He's already paying for what he did. Ellie's safe."

Ian's strength faltered. He dropped to the floor, face in his palms. Jungkook crouched beside him, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.