SCARRED AFFECTIONS

Chapter 2

The sun was setting over Busan, casting a warm golden glow across the coastal city. Jungkook had returned to his parents' home for spending time with them, seeking solace in familiar surroundings. The aroma of a home-cooked meal wafted through the air, blending with the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore. Jungkook sat at the dining table with his father, both savoring the simple comfort of a family dinner.

Jungkook's father, Mr. Jeon, was serving the last of the steamed rice onto Jungkook's plate. He looked over with a smile, his eyes reflecting the joy of having his son home.

"Your mother made her famous kimchi stew today," Mr. Jeon said with pride. "It's your favorite, isn't it?"

Jungkook grinned, taking a bite of the stew. "It's delicious, Appa. Just like always."

They continued chatting, the conversation light and cheerful. Jungkook's father asked about his recent work and how he was finding his teaching job.

"So, how's school going?" Mr. Jeon asked, passing a bowl of vegetables to Jungkook. "Are the students behaving?"

"They're great," Jungkook replied, his eyes lighting up. "We're working on a new project about environmental conservation. The kids are really into it."

"That's wonderful to hear," Mr. Jeon said, nodding approvingly. "It sounds like you're making a real difference."

The conversation flowed easily, punctuated by laughter and shared memories. They reminisced about family vacations and old friends. Jungkook's father was animated, recounting a funny incident from his own school days, making Jungkook laugh heartily.

"It's been a while since we had a meal like this," Mr. Jeon said, his tone softening. "I've missed these moments."

Jungkook looked at his father with a warm smile. "Me too, Appa. I've been so busy with work, I didn't realize how much I missed home."

As they finished their meal, Mr. Jeon leaned back in his chair, looking thoughtful. Jungkook was about to talk when his father's tone subtly shifted, his voice still gentle but a bit more serious now. "Speaking of which...how are things going with Taehyung?"

Jungkook's smile faltered slightly. He took a sip of water, gathering his thoughts. "Good," he answered,

Mr. Jeon's gaze was steady, though his voice carried a hint of concern. "You've been together for a while now. Have you two talked about... well, about your future together?"

Jungkook didn't respond right away, his fingers fidgeting slightly in his lap, though a small smile tugged at his lips. "We've talked a little," he said softly. "We're happy with how things are right now."

Mr. Jeon's expression grew more serious. "But have you discussed marriage or starting a family?"

Jungkook looked down, his smile fading. "Not really. He...doesn't want to talk about it."

Mr. Jeon's voice took on a note of sadness. "Jungkook, I've already warned you about the risks."

Jungkook met his father's eyes, sensing the gravity in his tone. "What do you mean?"

"You're dating a mafia leader, Jungkook," Mr. Jeon said, his voice filled with concern. "No one knows his true identity, but what if people find out about your relationship? There are many rivals who would love to use you against him. Your safety could be in danger."

Jungkook felt a pang of guilt. He shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "I know, Appa. But Taehyung... he's been good to me."

Mr. Jeon sighed deeply. "I understand that you care about him. But you have to think about your future. You're already 27, you should start a family"

Jungkook's heart sank at his father's words. He tried to find the right words but struggled. "Taehyung is always busy with his work. I don't know what the future holds."

Mr. Jeon's tone softened but remained firm. "Think about what you want for your future. Do you want to raise children in a world filled with crime and danger? Is this the life you want?"

Jungkook's eyes dropped to his hands, which were clenched tightly on the table. "I don't know, Appa. It's not that simple."

His father's face softened with sympathy. "Kookie, I just want you to be happy. And I'm worried that waiting for him might only hurt you more in the end."

Jungkook felt his chest tighten, the weight of his father's words sinking deep into his heart. He had always known that being with Taehyung wouldn't be easy, but hearing it from his father made the reality of the situation even harder to bear.

"I'm not asking you to give up on him," his father added softly. "But I am asking you to think about what's best for you. You deserve someone who's willing to give you everything you need-love, stability, a future."

Jungkook's eyes filled with unshed tears, but he blinked them back, refusing to cry in front of his father.

"Will you accept us if he leaves the mafia, Appa?" Jungkook asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

His father looked at him, a soft smile crossing his face. "I would have accepted anyone you loved, my son, if it meant you had a safe and stable life with them. I simply want your safety and for our future generations to lead a normal life without criminality. If your lover can leave behind his illegal activities and come to you, promising to provide a safe and normal life, then I'll accept both of you with my blessings," he said earnestly.

"I hope you'll consider what I've said," he added, ruffling Jungkook's hair before rising from his seat.

"Mi-Jeong! I have some unfinished work to do. I'll be back in an hour," he called out, and immediately Jungkook's mom emerged from the kitchen.

"Okay, honey. Come back soon," she responded, receiving a soft kiss on her forehead before he left.

Jungkook watched them with a rush of emotions. Since childhood, he had witnessed his parents' normal and loving relationship. They worked on their bond tirelessly, ensuring that despite their busy lives, they always made time for each other. Their relationship was a model of perfection, not solely built on love but also on mutual effort and commitment.

Jungkook had always aspired to emulate his parents' relationship with his future partner. However, now that his own relationship was complicated and fraught with challenges, he questioned whether he could achieve the life he had envisioned throughout his entire existence.

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of his mother's voice. "Come on, let's get some fresh air. It's a beautiful evening."

Jungkook nodded, standing up. "Sure, Mom. Let's go."

As they walked outside, the cool evening breeze brushed against his face, offering a momentary respite from the heaviness in his heart. They strolled through the garden, the fragrant scent of blooming flowers filling the air. Mi-Jeong chatted about mundane things-upcoming family events, local news, and neighborhood gossip. Jungkook listened, appreciating the distraction and the comfort of his mother's presence.

"Sometimes, a change of scenery helps clear your mind," Mi-Jeong said, looking at Jungkook with a gentle smile.

Jungkook sighed. "Yeah, maybe."

They continued walking in silence, the peaceful ambiance contrasting sharply with the turmoil inside Jungkook. He felt the need to make decisions that could affect the rest of his life, and he was uncertain of the path to take.

As they made their way back inside, Mi-Jeong gave Jungkook a reassuring hug. "Remember, we love you and want what's best for you. Whatever you choose, we'll support you."

Jungkook nodded, feeling a sense of comfort from his mother's words. "Thanks, Mom."

They went inside, and Jungkook retired to his room, the quiet of the house offering a space for reflection. He lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling, replaying his father's concerns and his own feelings. The future seemed uncertain, and he knew that he needed to make choices that would shape his life in ways he could not yet fully comprehend.

As he drifted off to sleep, Jungkook hoped for clarity and resolution, both for himself and for his relationship with Taehyung.

...to be continued.