IN THE PRESENCE OF YOUR ABSENCE

CHAPTER 22

Y/N stepped out into the rain, the cool droplets hitting her skin and bringing her back to the moment. She followed Jungwoon as he led her up the stone pathway to the mansion's grand entrance, the sound of the rain drumming against the roof a calming rhythm in the chaos of her thoughts.

As they entered, the warmth enveloped her, contrasting sharply with the storm outside. The interior was elegantly decorated, with soft lighting and plush furniture that made the space feel inviting yet intimidating. Y/N hesitated at the threshold, taking in the lavish surroundings, her heart racing.

"It's beautiful," she murmured, trying to mask her apprehension.

"Thank you," Jungwoon replied, glancing around. "It can be overwhelming, but it's a safe space. You can take your time to settle in."

He motioned for her to follow him deeper into the house. They walked past a spacious living room adorned with intricate artwork and a large fireplace, which crackled with a comforting glow. Jungwoon led her to a cozy sitting area, where he gestured for her to take a seat.

"I'll grab us something warm to drink," he said, disappearing into the adjoining kitchen.

Y/N sat down on the plush sofa, her thoughts racing as she looked around. She felt a mix of comfort and unease; the ambiance was serene, yet the weight of everything that had happened loomed over her. She could still hear Jimin's words echoing in her mind, the accusations and revelations about Jungkook's family pressing heavily on her heart.

When Jungwoon returned, he carried two steaming mugs of tea. He handed one to her and took a seat across from her, his gaze steady.

"Here you go. It's chamomile. I thought it might help you relax," he said with a soft smile.

"Thanks,it's my fav during rainy season" Y/N replied, wrapping her hands around the warm mug. She took a sip,it was her favouraite thing to drink when it rains the soothing warmth washing over her, but it did little to ease the turmoil inside.

Y/N's heart raced as she took another sip of tea, trying to find comfort in the familiar taste. Jungwoon's presence was calming, yet there was an underlying tension that she couldn't shake off.

Jungwoon started a convo. "You know Y/n ,Moving on isn't easy. Sometimes, it feels like we're carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders. But you don't have to face it alone. I know it's hard to trust, especially with everything that's happened to you."

Y/N met his gaze, searching for sincerity. "How do you know? Have you gone through something similar?"

A shadow flickered across Jungwoon's face, but he quickly masked it with a smile. "Let's just say I've seen enough to understand that life can be unpredictable. It can throw you into situations you never thought you'd be in."

Y/N felt a twinge of empathy for him. "I guess we all have our battles," she said softly, feeling a connection forming between them.

Jungwoon took a moment, his eyes reflecting a deep understanding. "If you want to talk about your battle more, I'm here to listen. No judgment, just... understanding."

Y/N took a deep breath, her fingers nervously tracing the rim of her mug. "I appreciate this, but I've been through a lot lately. I don't want to burden you with my problems."

Jungwoon leaned forward slightly, his expression sincere. "You're not a burden. I want to understand what you're going through. Sometimes talking about it can help, even if it's just a little."