Where Star Alligns

8

Jimin and Taehyung headed to the cafeteria, seeking a mid-morning respite. As they entered, Taehyung's ears picked up a familiar laughter. He swiftly turned, his eyes locking onto Jungkook, who was surrounded by friends, including Bora. Rumors swirled about Bora and Jungkook's alleged romance.

Their gazes met, and time seemed to freeze. Taehyung and Jungkook's wolves howled in unison, their excitement palpable. Jimin's gentle nudge broke the spell, and Taehyung shook off the trance, continuing to their table.

Meanwhile, Bora teased Jungkook, "Why don't you date someone? You're not getting any younger."

Jungkook's expression turned resolute. "I'm waiting for my mate, Bora. Only my mate."

Bora's tone turned sarcastic. "And what if your mate is ugly or already mated?"

Jungkook's eyes flashed red, his voice low and menacing. "You're my friend, Bora, which is the only reason I'll let that comment slide. But if you ever speak against my mate, I won't hesitate to protect them – no matter the cost."

The air around them grew tense, Jungkook's intensity sending a shiver through the onlookers.

Bora muttered under her breath, her eyes flashing with determination. "No matter who your mate is, Jungkook, I'll be the one to claim the throne and your heart."

Today marked a milestone – Taehyung and Bora's 18th birthday. The atmosphere at home was electric, with their parents beaming with pride.

"Happy birthday, dear children," Mina said, her smile warm.

"Thank you, Mom. Thank you, Dad," they chimed in unison.

Mina's eyes sparkled. "Today, you'll both come of age and potentially meet your mates. Are you excited?"

Bora bounced up and down, her enthusiasm unchecked. "Yes! I just know my mate is Jungkook. We love each other so much."

Mina exchanged a concerned glance with Daehyun. "But, Bora, what if Jungkook isn't your mate?"

Bora's face darkened, her voice rising. "I know he's my mate, Mother. I'm certain."

Mina swiftly intervened, redirecting the conversation. "Alright, dear. And, Taehyung, aren't you thrilled to meet your mate?"

Taehyung's smile masked his inner turmoil. "I am, Mom."

Though nerves fluttered in his chest, he didn't dare reveal them to his parents.

Daehyun placed a reassuring hand on Taehyung's shoulder. "We're proud of you both. Whatever the outcome, remember, your happiness is our priority."

As Bora and Taehyung arrived at college, Bora whispered, her voice tinged with disappointment, "Jungkookie isn't here yet."

Taehyung offered reassurance, "Don't worry, Noona. He'll be here soon."

Just then, Taehyung's wolf, Lovisa, stirred. His eyes turned a deep blue, and he inhaled a musky scent that made his wolf chant, "Mate... mate."

Taehyung's head whipped around, and his gaze locked onto Jungkook, who was walking toward them.

Bora's eyes widened in shock, her face pale. She had mistakenly assumed Jungkook was meant for her. With a sudden surge of possessiveness, she grasped Taehyung's arm, forcefully dragging him away.

Lovisa's anger flared. In a cold, menacing tone, he growled, "How dare you take me away from my mate, human? Do you wish to meet your end?"

Bora's eyes flashed with anger, but she softened her tone, pleading, "Taehyung, listen to me, please. Lovisa, give control back to Taehyung."

Lovisa's response was a low, rumbling growl. However, witnessing Bora's desperation, Taehyung regained control, his human consciousness reasserting dominance.

Breathing deeply, Taehyung steadied himself. "Noona, what's going on? Why did you pull me away?"

Bora's expression was a mix of desperation and calculation. "Let's go home first then we will talk, taehyungie".

Taehyung reluctantly followed Bora home, despite his desire to return to college and Jungkook. Their mother, Mina, greeted them with concern etched on her face.

"What happened? Why are you back so soon?" she asked.

Bora quickly fabricated an excuse. "We forgot our notes, Mom. We'll head back after grabbing them."

Mina's worried gaze lingered, but she returned to her work.

Once inside Bora's room, she pleaded with Taehyung. "Tae, Jungkook and I love each other deeply. Please don't come between us."

Taehyung's expression turned incredulous, his voice laced with anger. "He's my mate, Noona. Mine alone."

Bora's eyes welled up with fake tears. "But Jungkook loves me, Taehyung. Only me."

Taehyung's heart cracked at her words, but he composed himself. "Is that so? Then let him reject me."

Bora's voice took on a desperate tone. "No, Taehyung, you can't tell Jungkook. Or else..."

Taehyung's brow arched. "Or else what, Noona?"

With a dramatic flourish, Bora picked up scissors from her table. "Or else I'll kill myself."

Taehyung's eyes widened in horror. "What the hell, Noona? Put those down!"

Bora's tears flowed freely now, her voice laced with sadness. "No, Taehyung. I'll do it. You can have Jungkook, but remember, he loves me only. Don't forget how I cared for you, protected you from others when you were younger. Is this how you repay me?"

Taehyung's resolve crumbled. "No, Noona, please don't do this. You're more important to me. I won't tell Jungkook."

Bora's secret smirk revealed her satisfaction with the successful manipulation.