𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐫𝐞 |Taelisa|✓

15|A Surprise|

LISA POV

As I was getting ready for dinner, I was informed of an important dinner with the Jeon family. Taehyung had picked out a beautiful gown for me last night. I find myself conflicted and unsure of what I need to justify. When I reflect on our past, Taehyung was initially gentle with me, but I grew to despise him as it became apparent he was merely using me.

Last night, the way he touched me was undeniable, yet I grappled with conflicting emotions. Despite my resentment towards him for being my stepbrother and for the harm he has caused me, I cannot deny the allure of his touch. Perhaps he is manipulating me, and this realization only adds to the complexity of my feelings.

With conflicting thoughts swirling in my mind, I proceeded to get dressed for the dinner with the Jeon family. The dress Taehyung had chosen for me hung elegantly, its fabric soft against my skin. As I slipped it on, I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for enjoying something he had provided.

Despite my inner turmoil, I decided to do a little makeup, opting for a subtle yet enhancing look. As I applied each stroke of mascara and dabbed on a hint of lip color, I found myself lost in the routine, seeking solace in the familiarity of the process.

As I approached the door, the sound of a knock startled me, breaking the trance of my thoughts. Opening it, I was met with Taehyung's presence, his handsome demeanor striking despite the tension between us. His words cut through the air with a sharpness that stung, a stark reminder of the discord that lingered between us.

"We're all waiting for you; come fast," he said brusquely, his tone devoid of warmth or consideration. His abruptness only served to exacerbate the conflicting emotions swirling within me, leaving me feeling both unsettled and resentful.

As Taehyung stood there in his dark suit, his handsomeness accentuated by his sharp jawline, I couldn't help but notice the absence of any compliment from him. Why did I even crave his validation when I harbored such strong feelings of disdain toward him?

Nonetheless, I forced a nod and followed him, steeling myself for the evening ahead. Despite the tension between us, there was a shared understanding that tonight was not about our grievances, but rather about creating a facade of familial unity for Dad's sake. And so, with a heavy heart and a determined resolve, I braced myself for the challenges that lay ahead.

As I trailed behind Taehyung, the weight of confusion and frustration bore down on me like a heavy burden. His unpredictable behavior left me feeling like I was navigating a minefield of emotions, never knowing which version of him I would encounter next.

One moment, his touch ignited a fiery passion within me, leaving me craving more. Yet, just as quickly, he would withdraw into himself, leaving me to grapple with the pain of his indifference.

The turmoil of his bipolar personality inflicted a relentless ache upon my heart, leaving me questioning my worth and sanity. Why did I allow myself to be ensnared by someone who could so effortlessly toy with my emotions? The longing for his attention clashed violently with the rational part of me that screamed for self-preservation.

Despite the rationality of my thoughts, the pain of his indifference persisted, gnawing away at my resolve. I should be happy when he ignores me, shouldn't I? Yet, the truth remained that his indifference cut deeper than any physical wound, leaving behind scars that refused to heal. And so, I found myself trapped in a cycle of longing and anguish, desperately seeking solace in a relationship that was as tumultuous as it was toxic.

As we entered the main living hall, the presence of my stepmother and stepsister, Jennie, along with my father, enveloped the room. His gaze fell upon me, filled with warmth and affection, as he uttered those familiar words, "My beautiful daughter."