Balancing Hearts (Taennie)

CHAPTER XV - Stepsister

Company Office

"Unnie!" I heard someone yelling my name as I turned around, holding the folder with the documents I had scanned for our upcoming project. "Unnie!" My lips curved into a smile as I saw Tzuyu, my stepsister, rushing towards me and wrapping me in a tight hug.

I returned the hug and broke away as she squealed with excitement. "How was your year-long vacation, little sis?" I asked cheerfully.

"It was amazing. Actually, I brought my boyfriend here to Korea," she said casually. I stopped breathing for a moment, shocked by her news.

Tzuyu isn't just my stepsister. Ever since her mom and my dad got married when I was five and Tzuyu was two, I have been so protective of her and loved her deeply. She's like my real sister.

"Earth to Jennie," Tzuyu waved her hand in front of my face, snapping me out of my thoughts.

"Sorry, I just wasn't expecting that," I replied, trying to mask my surprise. "So, who is this lucky guy?"

Before Tzuyu could answer, the door to my office opened, and Taehyung walked in, followed by Ari. She was growing up so fast, looking more like a young woman every day. "Jennie, Ari wanted to see you," Taehyung said, his deep voice sending a thrill down my spine.

"Mom, Uncle Tae and I were talking about some new music," Ari said, her voice mature and confident. "I thought you might want to join us."

I smiled, feeling a mix of pride and bittersweet nostalgia. "That sounds wonderful, sweetheart. But your Aunt Tzuyu is here visiting us."

"Tzuyu meet my boyfriend, Kim Taehyung. He's the owner of the Kim Co." I smiled, introducing her to him. "Hello, Oppa." She beamed.

Taehyung nodded, his expression curious.

Tzuyu phone buzzed, and she glanced at it. "Oh, he's here! I'll introduce you my boyfriend now," she said excit

We followed Tzuyu to the lobby, where a tall, handsome man stood waiting. His face broke into a smile when he saw Tzuyu, and he enveloped her in a warm embrace.

"Everyone, this is my boyfriend, Mark," Tzuyu introduced, beaming with pride.

Taehyung's eyes narrowed slightly as he assessed Mark. "Nice to meet you, bro." he said, extending a hand. "I'm Taehyung."

"Pleasure," Mark replied, shaking his hand firmly.

As introductions were made, I noticed Taehyung's subtle glances at Tzuyu and Mark. His grip on my waist tightened slightly, a clear sign of his discomfort as I glanced at him worryingly. Ari, ever perceptive, raised an eyebrow and gave me a knowing look.

"Mom, I think Taehyung might be feeling a bit... jealous?," she whispered, a mischievous glint in her eye.

I chuckled softly. "I don't know."

Throughout the conversation, Taehyung's protectiveness over me was evident. He stayed close, his arm around my waist, and his gaze never strayed far from Mark. At one point, Mark leaned in to whisper something to Tzuyu, and Taehyung's jaw visibly tightened.

"Jennie, can I talk to you for a moment?" Taehyung asked, pulling me aside.

"Of course," I said, following him to a quieter corner.

"Do you think Mark is trustworthy?" Taehyung asked, his voice low and serious.

I smiled, touched by his concern. "I think we should give him a chance. Tzuyu seems really happy."

Taehyung sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I just don't want anyone to hurt you or your family. There is something with him."

"I know, and I appreciate that," I said, placing a hand on his cheek. "But we have to trust Tzuyu's choice."