_SHADOWS Of LOVE (Taehyung ff)

Chapter 5: First steps into love lane

Later that day, Y/N stood outside Love Lane, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and apprehension. The vibrant streets were alive with sounds and colors, a stark contrast to the constraints of her new life. As she walked with her maid, Yeji, Y/N couldn't help but marvel at the beauty surrounding her.

"Why do people see this place as forbidden?" she thought, captivated by the lively atmosphere and the enchanting courtesans who adorned the streets.

Entering the palace of courtesans, Y/N was instantly struck by its elegance. The interior was adorned with intricate carvings and luxurious fabrics, creating an ambiance that was both welcoming and alluring. It felt like stepping into a different world—a world where freedom and passion thrived.

As she made her way inside, Y/N spotted Yoona. Even with the passage of time, she was a vision of grace and beauty. Her presence commanded attention, and Y/N felt a flutter of nerves as she approached her.
Hello, I'm Y/N," she introduced herself, trying to mask her awe.

Yoona regarded her with warmth, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Welcome, Y/N. It's a pleasure to meet you. I've heard about you."

"I hope to visit regularly to learn music," Y/N said, her excitement bubbling over. "I'll be here starting tomorrow."

"Of course," Yoona replied, a content smile spreading across her face. "What kind of music do you wish to learn?"

"I want to explore traditional songs and perhaps some modern pieces," Y/N answered. "I want to capture the essence of both worlds."

Just then, Yeji stepped forward, her expression serious. "Excuse me, Yoona. I should mention that Y/N is the daughter-in-law of Kim Namjoon."

Yoona's eyes widened in surprise, her demeanor shifting instantly. "The Kim Namjoon? The respected elder of the noble family?"

Y/N felt a rush of embarrassment. "Yes, but I'm here to find my own path. I don't want to be defined by my family's name."

A shadow crossed Yoona's face as she recalled her own bittersweet past with Namjoon. She nodded slowly, choosing her words carefully. "You're not alone in that feeling. I once loved someone who was bound by duty. It can be a heavy burden."

Y/N sensed the weight of Yoona's words, recognizing the shared understanding of longing for more. "I want to break free from that. I want to make my own choices."

"Your courage is commendable," Yoona said softly, her voice filled with empathy. "But be careful in this world. It's easy to get lost among expectations."

"I appreciate your guidance, Yoona," Y/N replied, feeling a connection with her mentor.
As Y/N prepared to leave, she turned to exit the palace when she caught sight of a tall figure entering. It was Taehyung—handsome, with sharp features and an undeniable presence. Their eyes met, and an unspoken connection sparked between them.
Her heart skipped a beat as their eyes met, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still. His presence was magnetic, an aura of confidence surrounding him.

But just as quickly, Y/N shook herself from the daze. "Focus," she reminded herself, pushing the thought aside. She couldn't afford distractions—not now, not when she was beginning to carve out her own path.

With Yeji by her side, Y/N left Love Lane, her heart still racing from the encounter. She felt a spark of excitement at the opportunities ahead, ready to embrace the new chapters of her life that lay waiting.
While leaving, Y/N glanced back at palace of courtesans ,a newfound sense of hope igniting within her. Little did she know, the handsome man she had glimpsed earlier was still on her mind, but for now, she focused on the exciting journey ahead.

Taehyung's pov
As Taehyung stepped into Love Lane, the vibrant atmosphere felt almost foreign to him. The laughter and music echoed around him, but he was focused, determined to put aside any distractions. Then he saw her.

Y/N stood near the entrance, radiating a mix of innocence and strength. Her presence was captivating, and for a moment, he found himself captivated, the chaos of Love Lane fading away. There was something enchanting about her, an energy that drew him in. But he quickly shook off the feeling, reminding himself of the reality he faced.

"Focus," he muttered under his breath, forcing himself to move past her and into the palace of courtesans. His destination was clear—his so-called mother, the woman who had abandoned him.

Inside, Yoona was waiting, her eyes lighting up as he entered. "Taehyung! You're here!" she exclaimed, stepping forward with open arms.

He stepped back, a sarcastic smile on his lips. "Ah, the prodigal son returns, to the woman who chose survival over family. How lovely."

"Taehyung, please," Yoona's voice was laced with a mix of love and hurt. "I did what I had to do to protect you."

"Protect me?" he scoffed. "You left me to fend for myself. I'm not that powerless boy anymore. I'm a powerful man now, with money and influence. I don't need your protection."

Her expression fell, a flicker of pain crossing her face. "If I hadn't done what I did, your father would have killed you. He would never have allowed you to carry my name or be known as his son."

Taehyung chuckled bitterly, shaking his head. "Mother, don't worry. I'll ruin that man and his precious family. They deserve every ounce of pain I can inflict."

"Revenge is not the answer," she warned, her voice trembling. "It will only lead to more suffering."

He could see the weariness in her eyes, the fear of what he might become. But he was beyond that. "You don't know me, Yoona. You never did," he shot back, the edge in his tone sharp enough to cut.

As he turned to leave, he heard her voice softening. "Taehyung, please... come back. Let's talk this through."

But he didn't stop. He had made up his mind. The past had shaped him, and now he was ready to take control of his destiny. The lingering feeling he had when he saw Y/N flitted back into his mind, but he brushed it aside. This wasn't about love or connection; this was about power and revenge.

As he stepped out of the palace, he felt a mix of determination and emptiness. He had no intention of letting anyone stand in his way, not even the woman who had given him life. The world was his to conquer, and he wouldn't let anything— or anyone— distract him from his goals.