𝓔𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓷𝓰𝓵𝓮𝓭 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓽𝓼

Chapter 14: Rekindling Ties

Breeh's pov

The next morning, after a whirlwind of shopping and preparation, Jennie and I were ready to take off for Korea. As we packed our bags, I couldn't help but be surprised at how Jennie had been so sure I would be convinced to come along. She knew me so well, it was almost uncanny. Our bond had grown so close that she could read me like an open book. It caught me off guard, reminding me of how our friendship had deepened over the past couple of years.

Jennie had been there for me during some of my darkest times. After I came to New York, Jisoo was the only person I kept in touch with. She had been my rock back in Seoul, but as time passed, the distance and our busy schedules made it hard to stay connected. I missed her dearly. Despite everything, I was genuinely excited to see her again. I often wondered if she ever needed a shoulder to cry on as I did. She always seemed so composed, as if she had her own ways of dealing with things. I admired that about her and envied it too. But then I thought, if I didn't need someone to lean on, I wouldn't have such amazing people like Jennie and Jisoo in my life.

As the plane ascended into the sky, my thoughts drifted. The hum of the engines was almost soothing as I stared out the window at the clouds below. I thought about the life I had built in New York, the friends I had made, and the person I had become. Yet, there was a part of me that felt incomplete, as if I had left a piece of myself back in Korea.

When we finally landed in Seoul, a rush of emotions hit me. The familiar aura of the place brought back a flood of memories, both good and bad. But this time, I wasn't going to run away like a coward. I was here to face my past and, hopefully, find some closure. As we made our way out of the airport, I was taken aback by how many people recognized me, asking for pictures and autographs. It was a stark reminder of how far I'd come in my career. It was surreal to think that I had achieved such recognition.

"Welcome back, Breeh," Jennie said, linking her arm with mine. "It's going to be okay. I promise."

Her words were reassuring, and I nodded, trying to believe her. This was my chance to make amends, to face my fears, and maybe, just maybe, find closure. But as we drove through the city towards Jennie's family home, my heart pounded with anticipation and dread.

Jennie's family home was stunning, a clear testament to their wealth and status. She introduced me to her mom and dad, who were warm and welcoming. I couldn't help but feel a pang of envy at the close-knit family dynamic they shared. After some small talk, I was shown to the guest room where I would be staying. The wedding ceremony was to be held the next day, so I decided to visit my family that evening. Despite being exhausted, I was determined to see them and seek their forgiveness. I knew I wasn't blameless in the whole situation, even though they were at fault too.

I took a deep breath and headed out, leaving Jennie to spend time with her family. I needed some time to myself to gather my thoughts and prepare for the confrontation. When I arrived at what used to be my home, I noticed many changes. The house looked different, yet it felt the same. My heart raced as I rang the doorbell, unsure of what kind of reception I would receive.

The door opened, and the first person I saw was Hae-in. Seeing her made me feel vulnerable because she was the only person I truly adored. She was so important to me that I would choose her over my real father. But when my family cut contact with me, she did too. I assumed it was because my parents wouldn't allow her to stay in touch.

"Hae-in," I whispered, my voice trembling.

Her eyes widened in surprise, and for a moment, I saw a flicker of the old warmth we shared. But it was quickly replaced by a guarded expression. Then my parents joined us. My father seemed genuinely surprised and pleased to see me. We had a long conversation where I explained my mental health and emotions at that time. Seeing me cry seemed to affect him deeply, and he was more focused on my guilt and presence than the reasons behind my actions.

"Breeh," my father said softly, his eyes filled with concern. "We missed you. I'm sorry for everything."

Hearing those words brought a sense of relief and a new wave of guilt. I had been so wrapped up in my own pain that I hadn't considered theirs.

During the conversation, I noticed a ring on Hae-in's engagement finger. Was she engaged? I was so happy for her, knowing how particular she was about men. Whoever managed to put a ring on her finger must be someone she truly adored. But as we talked, I sensed something was off about her behavior. I ignored it at first, thinking she might be upset with me for being out of touch for so long.

"Hae-in, I'm so happy for you," I said, gesturing to her ring. "Who's the lucky guy?"

Her expression shifted, and for a moment, she seemed hesitant. "It's... it's Taehyung."

The words hit me like a ton of bricks. Taehyung? My mind raced, trying to process the information. Taehyung, the man I had a complicated history with, was now engaged to my beloved step-sister?

"Oh," I managed to say, forcing a smile. "That's wonderful. I'm really happy for you."

No I wasn't....

Because inside, I felt a storm brewing. This trip was supposed to be about facing my past and finding closure. But now, it seemed like my past was more entangled than ever.

"Finding closure is freeing the heart from its past, allowing it to embrace a new chapter with peace."
🦋<3