Bound by Colors

Chapter 7

Jimin sat on the edge of the bed, his face flushed with anger, eyes brimming with unshed tears. Taehyung’s actions were driving him to the brink of madness. For a moment, he stayed still, his mind drifting back to Jungkook. How was he? Would he ever understand if Jimin tried to explain everything to him again?

Feeling exhausted and suffocated, Jimin rose from the bed. The luxurious room, filled with the scent of Taehyung’s cologne, felt like a gilded cage. He headed to the bathroom and let the hot shower water wash over him, bringing a slight sense of relief. After drying off, he walked into the dressing room, which was brimming with expensive clothes—another testament to Taehyung’s wealth and power.

Taehyung’s words echoed in his mind: *Wear something beautiful.* Determined to defy him in whatever small way he could, Jimin chose the dullest outfit he could find—a simple white shirt and sweatpants. As he dressed, he caught a glimpse of himself in the mirror and saw the bruises Taehyung had left on his skin.

"I hate you, Mr. Kim," he whispered fiercely to his reflection. He swore to himself that he would never let Taehyung control him. Not anymore.

He moved to the window, staring out at the garden below. He had to find a way to leave this place, and this time, he wouldn’t involve anyone else. A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts, and Miss Park entered.

"Sir is waiting for you," she said.

Jimin followed her to the dining room, where the table was laden with extravagant dishes, the aroma tantalizing his senses. Taehyung sat at the head of the table, exuding an air of cold dominance. He pointed to the chair beside him, and Jimin reluctantly took his seat. His stomach growled at the smell of the food, but he kept his eyes downcast.

Taehyung grabbed his hand, his expression hardening. "Didn’t I tell you to wear something beautiful?" he said.

"Anyways, you still look beautiful," he added, stroking Jimin’s hand.

Jimin looked at him, puzzled by the odd mixture of criticism and compliment. Miss Park began serving the food. Jimin pulled his hand away, needing it to eat.

"Mr. Kim, my hand. I need to eat," he said, tugging gently.

Taehyung grinned and then, without warning, pulled Jimin into his lap. The maids gasped, and Jimin’s eyes widened in surprise. He tried to get up, but Taehyung’s grip on his waist was unyielding.

"Mr. Kim..."

"Shh, finish your food," Taehyung’s voice was dangerously low as he caressed Jimin’s back. Jimin’s heart raced, his hands trembling slightly. Taehyung sipped his wine, watching Jimin with an amused expression.

Jimin took large bites of his food, trying to finish quickly.

"Eat slowly, don’t choke," Taehyung whispered in his ear.

The words startled Jimin, and he began to choke, coughing violently. He grabbed a glass of water and gulped it down.

"I’m done," he said quickly, desperate to escape.

Taehyung loosened his grip, and Jimin stood up, practically bolting from his lap. Taehyung stood as well, taking Jimin’s hand.

"I have to show you something," he said, leading him down the hall.

Jimin’s heart pounded as they approached a room. Taehyung opened the door, revealing a library, its walls adorned with beautiful paintings. Jimin’s eyes fixed on one painting, an original piece by his favorite artist—nearly impossible to acquire.

"You like it?" Taehyung asked, noting Jimin’s gaze.

Jimin nodded, then quickly shook his head. "No, I don’t," he lied.

Taehyung smiled, pulling out a silk box from his pocket. Inside was a stunning bracelet of diamonds and platinum, with a delicate lavender pattern.

He took Jimin’s hand and fastened the bracelet around his wrist. "Beautiful," he murmured, kissing Jimin’s wrist.

Jimin shivered, the spot where Taehyung had kissed burning as if it were on fire. He pulled his hand back, his heart racing, breaths coming in short gasps.

Taehyung cupped Jimin’s face, looking deep into his eyes. "Never take it off," he commanded.

The intensity of Taehyung’s obsession made Jimin tremble. Taehyung pulled him into a hug, Jimin’s head pressed against his chest, hearing the steady beat of his heart.

"You’re so beautiful, Jimin. You’ve filled my world with colors. Never leave me. Alright?" Taehyung’s voice was a soft murmur.

Jimin felt like he would burn under Taehyung’s touch. "Mr. Kim, I’m tired. I want to rest," he said, struggling to breathe.

Taehyung stepped back, and Jimin fled to his room, feeling like his heart would stop if he stayed another moment. As he disappeared down the hall, Taehyung whispered to the empty air, "I like you, Jimin."