Teach me how to love

17

As Jungkook sat at the elegantly set dining table, surrounded by his family for what was supposed to be a pleasant final dinner before he returned to university, the atmosphere was light and cheerful. His mother was regaling stories from her recent trips, and his father was sharing updates about his business ventures. However, as the conversation flowed, Jungkook felt an uneasy tension building in the air.

It was when his father cleared his throat, a signal that the tone was about to shift, that Jungkook's heart sank slightly. "You know, Jungkook," his father began, a hint of seriousness creeping into his voice, "it's time we discussed your future."

Jungkook's stomach twisted, his instincts telling him where this was headed. "Dad, I—"

Before he could finish, his father continued, "I've been thinking about the family connections we have and how advantageous it would be for you to settle down soon. I have someone in mind who would be perfect for you."

Jungkook's heart raced at the mention of arranged marriage. "Dad, I really don't think—"

"Listen, Jungkook," his father interjected firmly. "This is important. You're of age, and as the only son, it's your duty to carry on the family name. A good marriage can provide stability, not just for you but for the family."

Jungkook clenched his jaw, feeling a surge of frustration and helplessness. "But what if I don't want that? I have plans for my future, and I'm not ready for marriage."

His father's expression hardened slightly. "You don't understand the value of these connections. This isn't just about you; it's about the family legacy. You need to think about what's best for our name."

At this moment, Jungkook's mind raced back to Taehyung, the person who had made his life so vibrant and meaningful. The thought of being tied to someone he didn't love felt suffocating. "I understand the family legacy, but I also have my own life to live. I don't want to be forced into something that doesn't feel right."

His mother, sensing the tension rising, tried to intervene. "Honey, we just want what's best for you. Maybe meeting her wouldn't be such a bad idea? It could lead to something good."

Jungkook felt his frustration boil over. "What's best for me is to have the freedom to choose my own path! You can't just decide my life for me!"

The room fell silent, the tension palpable. His father's face grew stern, clearly displeased with Jungkook's outburst. "You will not speak to your mother or me like that. We're trying to help you."

"I don't need your help in this," Jungkook shot back, standing up from the table, his chair scraping against the floor. "I can make my own choices. I want to live my life on my own terms, not be some pawn in a family game."

With that, Jungkook stormed out of the dining room, his heart pounding in his chest. The weight of expectations felt heavier than ever, and as he stepped out onto the balcony, he took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm inside him. He pulled out his phone, his fingers hovering over Taehyung's contact.

In that moment, he realized that he wanted to fight for what he truly valued—his love for Taehyung—and he needed to figure out how to stand his ground against his family's wishes.

As Jungkook stood on the balcony, staring out into the night, he felt the cool breeze brush against his skin, but it did little to ease the heat of his anger. The door creaked open, and his mother stepped outside, her expression a mix of concern and determination.

"Jungkook," she began softly, her voice gentle yet firm. "I know you're upset, but please try to understand your father. He only wants what's best for you."