Teach me how to love

21

The day finally arrived when Jungkook's parents sat down with Lisa's parents to discuss the arranged marriage. The atmosphere was tense, the weight of the conversation heavy in the air. Jungkook, sitting quietly at the table, already knew where he stood, but the formality of this meeting had to play out. His father, with his usual stern expression, began speaking.

"We understand the importance of maintaining business ties between our families," Jungkook's father said, his tone measured. "However, as we've discussed before, Jungkook is unwilling to go through with the marriage."

Lisa's father nodded, though his face showed signs of frustration. "I see. But you must understand, we cannot simply let go of such a valuable arrangement without securing something in return."

Jungkook clenched his fists under the table. He could already sense where this conversation was headed, and he was determined to stand firm in his decision.

"We aren't asking for charity," Lisa's father continued. "We are willing to accept Jungkook's refusal on one condition: Jungkook must prove his worth by doubling the profits for your family's company within the next year. If he succeeds, we will walk away from the marriage arrangement without any further demands."

Jungkook's eyes narrowed, and he spoke up, his voice steady but determined. "So, you're essentially asking me to prove my ability to lead by turning a profit? Fine. I don't need a marriage to do that. I'll prove my value through my work, not by who I marry."

Lisa's mother, who had been mostly silent up to this point, finally spoke. "We are not unreasonable. We simply want to ensure that both families benefit. If Jungkook can bring the company the success we're asking for, we'll consider this matter settled."

Jungkook's parents exchanged a glance before his father nodded. "It's a steep demand, but if this is what it takes to respect our son's decision, we agree."

Jungkook stood from his seat, his resolve clear. "I'll do it. I'll bring in twice the profits, and I'll do it my way. But let's be clear—this is about business, not about my personal life. That's not up for negotiation."

Lisa's father leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "Very well. You have one year to make good on that promise."

With that, the meeting came to a close, and Jungkook walked out, his head held high. The challenge ahead was daunting, but he was ready to face it—on his own terms.

As Jungkook turned to leave the room after the tense meeting, Lisa suddenly called out to him, her voice softer than it had been during the negotiations.

"Jungkook, wait," she said, taking a step closer. He stopped and turned to face her, his expression guarded.

"I'm not going to lie," Lisa began, her tone laced with a mixture of disappointment and curiosity. "A part of me is disappointed that you chose Taehyung over this arrangement. But I want to ask you something, and I need you to be honest with yourself."

Jungkook crossed his arms, narrowing his eyes slightly. "Go on."

"Are you really serious about him?" she asked, her gaze searching his face for any hint of doubt. "I mean, truly serious? Because this isn't just about us or our families anymore. You're making choices that will change everything, especially for yourself."

Jungkook's jaw tightened. He knew what she was implying, but he didn't flinch. "I am serious about Taehyung. He's the person I want to be with."

Lisa nodded but didn't seem entirely convinced. "Okay, but think about the bigger picture, Jungkook. You're the only son. Have you thought about how you'll have a family, how you'll continue your bloodline? You know how important that is, especially in families like ours."