Reborn: Trail Of Redemption

16. Ego

At that moment, they heard the sound of tiny footsteps approaching. Y/N turned around, her lips instantly curling into a wide smile as she spotted the little baby making his way down the stairs, rubbing his sleepy eyes.

Seol walked straight to his father and leaped into his arms. Jungkook welcomed him with a warm embrace, a smile spreading across his face. This was their cherished morning ritual; Seol always needed some early morning affection. His eyes widened with surprise when he noticed Y/N standing beside his dad.

Y/N chuckled as Seol rubbed his eyes and stared at her again. In an instant, Seol broke into a wide grin and wiggled out of his father's arms, eagerly hopping into Y/N's embrace.

"Good morning, little bunny," she said, planting a kiss on the tip of his nose. "Good morning," Seol murmured, snuggling into her neck. Jungkook watched them with a gentle smile, a pang of guilt piercing his heart. He knew Seol was starved for a mother's affection, and he held himself responsible for that.

Lost in his thoughts, Jungkook was brought back to reality by Seol's curious question to Y/N. "Why are you here so early in the morning?"

"I missed you so much, that's why I'm here," Y/N replied, covering his face with playful kisses, making him giggle with delight.

Jungkook's heart ached as he watched the exchange, a mixture of joy and regret swirling within him. He couldn't deny the happiness that Y/N brought into Seol's life who craved the warmth of a motherly figure.

"Let's have breakfast." Jungkook said, breaking the tender moment.

Seol's eyes lit up with excitement. "Yes! Breakfast with auntie!"

Y/N laughed, her eyes sparkling. "That sounds perfect. What would you like to eat, Seol? I'll gladly cook for you."

Seol thought for a moment, then his face broke into an eager smile. "Pancakes! With lots of syrup!"

"Coming right up," Y/N said, setting him down gently. She headed towards the kitchen, with Seol trailing closely behind, his small hand clutching hers.

Jungkook followed, feeling a warmth spread through him as he watched them. He couldn't help but think about how naturally Y/N fit into their lives, how easily she bring light into their home.

In the kitchen, Y/N began gathering ingredients while Seol climbed onto a stool, eager to help.

"You need to rest. Let the chefs handle this, or I'll cook," Jungkook said, positioning himself in front of Y/N, effectively caging her between his body and the counter. Her cheeks flushed crimson at his proximity, and the chefs glanced at each other, eyes wide with surprise.

"What are you doing?" she whispered.

"Everyone out," Jungkook instructed calmly. The chefs quickly bowed and exited the kitchen.

"I'm feeling well enough to cook," she protested.

"No, you can't. Sweating might aggravate your burn," he replied firmly.

"Then how about I cook, and you assist me?" she suggested.

"No! I'll cook, and YOU can help me," Jungkook insisted with a smile. Y/N glared at him stubbornly. Jungkook raised an eyebrow, intimidating her, and she quickly looked away.

"Fine," she mumbled.

Y/N took on the role of sous-chef, chopping fruits and preparing the toppings. "Here, have some strawberries, Seol," she said, offering a piece to Seol, who obediently opened his mouth. His eyes lit up with delight as the sweet taste burst in his mouth.

"Yummy," Seol chimed. Y/N giggled and popped one into her mouth. She glanced at Jungkook, who was already watching them.

"Want some?" she asked, holding a strawberry out to him. He nodded and ate it from her hand. Her eyes widened in surprise, but Jungkook remained focused on the pancake batter.