Broken Hearts

6

Only a few days had passed, and the big event—the baby gender reveal party—was quickly approaching. Jennie was excited, yet a bit nervous. While shopping for the baby, she opted for neutral items—soft pastel colours that would be suitable for both a boy and a girl. Deep down, she had a feeling they were expecting a girl, but she didn't want to take any chances. Her intuition had failed her before, so she remained cautious. Arriving at the party hand-in-hand with Taehyung gave her a sense of calm. His presence always provided her with a feeling of safety and security, and today, she needed that more than ever. Standing beside her was Alice, another pillar of support in her life, always there when Jennie needed her.

Jennie was particularly excited because today was special for another reason—she was finally going to introduce Taehyung to her mother. The moment their eyes met, and Jennie's mother realized that Taehyung came from a wealthy and influential family, Jennie saw the spark in her mother's eyes. The architectural firm owned by his family was highly regarded, and Jennie's mother instantly saw an opportunity. Her husband had just started getting more involved in business, having acquired several buildings, and such a connection could be valuable. Taehyung seemed to pick up on this but, with a gentle smile on his lips, managed to charm not only her mother but also all her friends, who gathered around him like moths to a flame. Jennie was incredibly grateful. Social situations like these didn't always feel comfortable to her, but Taehyung's natural charisma made everything easier. She couldn't imagine how she'd get through today without him. After mingling with the guests, Taehyung gently wrapped his arm around Jennie's waist and pressed a soft kiss on her temple.

"Thank you for being here with me," Jennie whispered quietly, almost inaudibly, but her gratitude was clear.

Taehyung looked at her with love in his eyes and replied, "Anything for you, love." His grip around her waist tightened, as if to reassure her that he was there, no matter what. Jennie let out a happy giggle, warmth and joy radiating through her. Moments like this reminded her why she cherished Taehyung so much.

---

Alice stood on the outskirts of the party, holding a drink and sipping slowly. With a subtle unease, she glanced around the room, feeling the weight of the stares on her. People either avoided eye contact with her or threw judgmental looks her way. Some whispered, and occasionally someone snickered. This sense of being an outsider had followed her wherever she went. She had grown accustomed to it, but today it felt especially intense. Why had she even come? She didn't belong here. She was always the outsider.

Jennie was talking with her mother and Taehyung, and Alice felt increasingly aware of her own isolation. Others were chatting, blending into the scene, while she stood like a ghost in the corner. Her gaze kept drifting until she heard a familiar voice beside her.

"Are you watching me?" the male voice said, instantly recognizable. Alice turned sharply to find herself face-to-face with Eunwoo. Relief washed over her immediately. A playful smile appeared on his lips as he asked with a hint of irony, "What are you doing here?"

"I'm here with a friend," Alice replied, managing a small smile. Eunwoo looked fantastic, dressed in a sharp suit, like he'd just stepped out of a luxury fashion magazine. Alice was still surprised at how much he fascinated her. She had thought no one would ever stir such feelings in her again, but Eunwoo took her breath away every time.

"And you?" she asked, curious about what brought him there.

"My stepmother is showing off, trying to prove to her friends how well she's doing. Isn't it fun?" he chuckled, clearly amused by the situation.

"Stepmother?" Alice began to think. If she was his stepmother, then...

Before she could finish her thought, Jennie appeared beside them, grabbing Alice's hand firmly. "Eunwoo, are you bothering again?"