The Unfaithful

12

Y/N took a steady breath as she entered the grand foyer of Jungkook's family mansion. The laughter of his family filled the spacious room, echoing against the polished marble floors. She spotted Jungkook's mother seated at the head of the group, her smile fading instantly when she noticed Y/N's arrival. The older woman's expression tightened, and she gave an exaggerated roll of her eyes.

"Oh, Y/N," she said with a smug tilt to her lips, her voice loud enough to cut through the other conversations. "So glad you could finally join us." Her tone was drenched in sarcasm as she cast a judgmental glance up and down Y/N's figure, her gaze stopping meaningfully on her abdomen.

Y/N greeted everyone politely, a soft smile gracing her lips as she nodded in acknowledgment. She knew how much it irked Jungkook's mother when her remarks failed to get a reaction. The older woman's smirk faltered just slightly, clearly annoyed at Y/N's calm demeanor. But she wasn't one to give up easily.

Turning to the rest of the family, Jungkook's mother let out a mocking laugh. "Oh, I do wonder when we'll finally hear some good news from Jungkook's side," she said, looking pointedly at Y/N. "Maybe a grandchild? Though with some people, perhaps that's just a little too much to hope for."

Y/N's jaw tightened, but her smile remained. She knew exactly what his mother was insinuating. The woman's eyes glinted as she continued, "After all, being married into this family is a privilege. Not everyone's up to the standard, of course. It takes a certain class, a certain... capability."

Y/N's smile brightened as she finally replied, her voice soft but steady, "You're absolutely right. It does take someone who can rise to the expectations. And I can see how much you've set an example for that, haven't you?"

Jungkook's mother's eyes widened slightly, but she kept her mask of condescension.

"Oh, dear, I suppose that's true," the older woman continued, clearly undeterred. "Though, when it comes to giving this family an heir... well, some things just don't come naturally to everyone, do they?" She laughed, glancing around to ensure she had an audience, even though many of the others seemed more interested in their own conversations.

"Perhaps," Y/N replied smoothly, her calm gaze never wavering. "But sometimes, the best things in life are worth waiting for. And the right timing brings exactly what's needed into our lives, don't you agree?"

The older woman's face twitched, her smirk slipping as she felt her words were losing their sting. "Well, I do hope you're not setting Jungkook up for disappointment," she snapped. "This family has certain standards. And without children, without an heir... Well, I'm sure you can understand how one might not truly belong."

Y/N let out a small, unbothered laugh, her eyes locking with her mother-in-law's. "With all due respect, I believe belonging in this family is about more than just meeting certain... criteria. It's about love, loyalty, and mutual respect. Qualities I strive to uphold every day, as Jungkook's wife." She let her words sink in, her gaze unwavering. "I think, perhaps, some people forget that those things matter most."

Jungkook's mother looked as if she'd been slapped. Her mouth opened, but for once, no words came. Y/N held her ground, her serene smile the only response as she left the woman speechless.

Y/N raised her glass of juice to her lips, letting the coolness wash over her as she felt, for the first time tonight, a bit of peace. After standing up to her mother-in-law's endless insults and belittling words, she finally felt liberated, no longer willing to let anyone crush her spirit. She gave herself a satisfied smile, savoring the moment and letting the tension slip away.

Just as she was about to enjoy a piece of fresh fruit, a familiar voice broke through her thoughts. "Y/N, wow, you look... stunning tonight."

She turned, a little surprised, and found herself face-to-face with Eunwoo, his warm smile immediately lighting up the room around them. "Eunwoo!" she said, her voice brightening. "We meet again! I almost forgot you were coming tonight."