"It's not that cold," Jennie smiled, moving her feet, creating ripples. She was sitting by the man-made pond, dipping her feet in the cold water. She had decided not to ask Jungkook about his worries. Maybe he missed his father and was struggling to express himself. Jungkook stood there contemplating whether to join her or not.Her smile reassured him. He sat beside her, his shoulder touching hers as he made sure there was no distance between them. He let his feet slide into the water, and soon the cold water sent a shiver across his body. His body shook a little as she giggled at his reaction. "It isn't even that cold," she teased him, laughter dancing in her voice. Without warning, she splashed some water on his face, the cool droplets catching him off guard. He flinched at her playful antics. "Jennie. Stop it," he requested, though the tone of his voice belied a hint of amusement, only for her to intensify her playful splashing.
In a moment of spontaneity, he leaned forward, giving her a quick kiss to stop her, catching her completely off guard. She froze, her eyes widening in surprise, and for a fleeting moment, time seemed to stand still between them. He smiled, reveling in the success of his playful plan. As he pushed back his wet hair, Jennie couldn't help but think he looked particularly attractive in that moment, a charming mix of mischief and sexual appeal. She gulped, a rush of warmth flooding her cheeks as she turned her head away, trying to regain her composure.
The water splashed against her face again, sending shivers through her body, a stark contrast to the heat rising in her cheeks. She glanced at him again and saw that he was smirking, clearly enjoying the effect he had on her. "Don't you dare," she warned him, attempting to sound threatening, but Jungkook could see right through her. He chuckled softly, his eyes glinting with mischief. "You're scared I might kiss you?" he asked, and her eyes grew wide, the blush on her cheeks deepening as she shook her head vigorously.
"Tell me. What are you afraid of?" His voice was calm. She knew he wasn't joking; the sincerity in his gaze was undeniable. "I'm afraid of getting hurt," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper, a confession that slipped out, unconsciously.
His mischievous smile faded as her words sank in. "But I'm even more afraid to hurt someone," she continued, her gaze fixed on her feet submerged in the water, her body language heavy with unspoken sorrow. Jungkook's concern deepened as he observed her—the way her face seemed to lose its usual vibrancy, the way her laughter faded into silence.
"Gguk," she called softly, turning her head towards him, her expression shifting to one of vulnerabilities. She looked fragile, as if she was at the edge of a breakdown, filled with guilt and sorrow. The sight broke his heart. "You asked me back then to share anything with you, right? Any secret I want to? Right?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly. He nodded, remembering it clearly.
"I killed someone," she whispered, her lips quivering as she confessed. The words hung in the air, heavy and shocking, and Jungkook's heart dropped. He looked at her in disbelief. This has never happened before. What is happening? How long had she carried this burden alone?
YOU ARE READING
Palace Of Illusions
FantasyJennie Kim, the princess of Nereida is soon to marry the crown prince of Celestoria, Jeon Jungkook. Due to certain circumstances, she meets a commoner who helps her, named Han Taehyung. Little to her knowledge, Jungkook poses a threat to her kingd...