Rebel | Jinkook

Forty

Jungkook sat nervously at the table, his fingers fidgeting underneath, as he faced Ji-Sook, Seokjin's mother. Over the past few weeks, he had grappled with the daunting task of breaking the news to her about Jin's pregnancy. He was particularly concerned as Ji-Sook had been working hard to make positive changes for them and their future. The news of Jin's pregnancy had completely shifted the dynamics, leaving Jungkook feeling lost and unsure how to navigate the situation.

He realized that he bore responsibility for Seokjin's pregnancy and deeply regretted not being more cautious and thoughtful in his actions. Although he had accompanied Seokjin to obtain birth control and had emphasized the importance of taking it, he acknowledged that he should have taken further steps to prioritize their safety during intimate moments. Despite making an effort to consistently use condoms, there were instances where mishaps occurred, and he wished he had been more diligent in addressing these incidents and preventing the situation from reaching its current state.

To him, it felt deeply unfair that Seokjin, who had been brought up in a highly sheltered environment and wrestled with understanding even the most basic aspects of life, was now tasked with becoming a parent. This evoked a strong sense of dread in Jungkook, particularly as he contemplated how Seokjin would navigate the complexities of parenthood and whether he fully understood the countless changes ahead as they tackled this new chapter as parents.

"You asked me to come here, but now you're quiet. What's happening? Are you hesitating about going to the U.S.?" Ji-Sook asked, studying Jungkook and noticing his demeanor. She could tell he was feeling stressed, even though she had spoken to her son, who had given her the impression that everything was going smoothly.

Jungkook nervously rubbed his clammy palms together, the weight of his news hanging heavily in the air. It was a conversation he didn't want to have with Jin's mother. Despite their marriage, he understood that he and Jin were unprepared to start a family. They were far from being ready for such a responsibility.

"I am just going to come right out and say it. Seokjin is pregnant." After vocalizing this, Jungkook bowed his head, consumed by worry over Ji-Sook's potential response.

As silence lingered in the air, a heaviness settled in his heart. He could only imagine the disappointment she must have felt. Jungkook was sure his late mother would have rejoiced at the news of becoming a grandparent. However, he also knew she would have been troubled because her son had not completed his studies before starting a family.

The suffocating silence filled the room, making him uneasy. He slowly raised his head, locking eyes with Ji-Sook, who returned his gaze with a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. His confusion only deepened as he tried to comprehend the mixed signals she seemed to be sending.

Ji-Sook's face brightened with a smile as she finally said, "Congratulations!" She reached for her untouched drink, took a sip, and carefully placed the glass back on the table. "I felt Seokjin was keeping something from me with how careful he was while talking to me earlier. I am guessing this is it," she remarked.

"Yes, I am sorry. It's my fault that this happened. Nothing Seokjin did; I was irresponsible and failed to be more careful," Jungkook explained. He was especially concerned about any potential misunderstandings regarding his husband.

Ji-Sook appeared concerned as she locked eyes with Jungkook. "What are you apologizing for? You and Seokjin are married. While I would have preferred to learn about this news in the future, it doesn't change how I feel now. I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations. I understand this may bring many changes and challenges, especially concerning Seokjin. However, what I can say is that this does change a lot in terms of your standing and relationship with Seokjin."