Royalty Rivals [[Taekook ff]]

Chapter -30[🌺]

The tension in the palace was mounting as Jae made increasingly bold moves to secure his place at Jungkook's side. His attempts to draw closer to the king were becoming more noticeable, and the subtle shifts in the dynamics of the court were not lost on anyone.

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Jae had decided to take a more personal approach in his bid to win Jungkook's favor. His strategy was clear: establish a deeper connection with Jungkook by being present in his daily life, offering support, and engaging in intimate conversations. He was always nearby, ready to assist with any matter or provide comfort in times of stress.

One afternoon, as Jungkook reviewed documents in his study, Jae knocked softly and entered without waiting for a response.

*"Your Majesty, I thought you might appreciate some company,"* Jae said, his voice warm and inviting. *"I've brought some refreshments and thought we could discuss the current affairs together."*

Jungkook looked up, slightly surprised but welcoming of the gesture. *"Thank you, Jae. I could use a break."*

Jae took a seat beside Jungkook, their proximity intentional. As they spoke, Jae's tone was soothing, and his attention was entirely focused on Jungkook. He laughed at Jungkook's jokes, offered insightful comments on the matters at hand, and subtly reminded Jungkook of the benefits of their potential union.

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From a distance, Taehyung observed the interaction with growing frustration. The sight of Jae leaning in and engaging with Jungkook so intimately stirred a deep sense of jealousy and anger within him. It wasn't just about Jae's actions but also about the realization that Jungkook was being drawn away from him.

*"How can he be so bold?"* Taehyung muttered to himself, his fists clenched. *"Does he think he can just waltz in and win Jungkook over?"*

Taehyung's emotions were a tumultuous mix of jealousy, insecurity, and confusion. The more he saw Jae with Jungkook, the more he felt a burning desire to confront the situation and reclaim his own place by Jungkook's side.

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Jennie, on her part, was not idle. She saw an opportunity in Taehyung's growing frustration and jealousy. Her plan was to exploit these emotions by drawing closer to Taehyung and subtly undermining his confidence.

One evening, Jennie approached Taehyung in the palace gardens, where he was brooding alone.

*"Taehyung, you seem troubled,"* Jennie said with a feigned concern. *"Is everything alright? You seem distant."*

Taehyung looked at Jennie, his expression a mix of surprise and wariness. *"Just dealing with a lot. Jae's proposal and his behavior are... difficult to handle."*

Jennie's eyes gleamed with understanding. *"I can imagine. It must be hard to see someone so close to Jungkook. But you're a strong and capable leader, Taehyung. Don't let Jae's actions get to you."*

Taehyung sighed, feeling a mixture of relief and unease. *"I appreciate your support, Jennie. It's just... frustrating to see things unfolding this way."*

Jennie took a step closer, her demeanor reassuring. *"You're not alone in this. If you need anything or just want to talk, I'm here for you."*

Her words were designed to build trust and create a bond, subtly positioning herself as Taehyung's confidante. As they continued their conversation, Jennie's intentions were clear-she wanted to gain Taehyung's trust and further manipulate the situation to her advantage.

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As days went by, the interactions between Jae and Jungkook became more frequent and intimate, while Taehyung struggled to keep his emotions in check. The jealousy he felt was increasingly difficult to hide, and his frustration was evident in his interactions with others.

One evening, during a formal dinner, Taehyung watched from his place at the table as Jae engaged with Jungkook. Jae's demeanor was charming and attentive, and Jungkook seemed genuinely amused and engaged. The scene was a painful reminder of how Jae was encroaching on what Taehyung had hoped to build with Jungkook.

Jennie, sitting nearby, noticed Taehyung's growing agitation and saw an opportunity to further exploit the situation. She leaned in closer to Taehyung, her voice low and soothing.

*"You're doing great, Taehyung. Just remember that you have your own strengths and qualities that Jungkook values. Don't let Jae's actions make you doubt yourself."*

Taehyung forced a smile, though his eyes were clouded with frustration. *"Thank you, Jennie. I'll keep that in mind."*

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As the evening drew to a close, Taehyung retreated to his quarters, his mind racing with thoughts of Jae and Jungkook. The growing closeness between them was a painful reminder of the distance that seemed to be growing between himself and Jungkook.

In the solitude of his room, Taehyung reflected on his feelings, realizing that his jealousy was a manifestation of deeper emotions. The more Jae tried to get close to Jungkook, the more Taehyung felt a compelling need to confront his own feelings and the reality of their situation.

*"I need to understand what this means for us,"* Taehyung thought, feeling the weight of his emotions and the complexity of the situation.

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