Unbinding Tradition

36. Shopping spree 🥰

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Tae entered the quiet kitchen, the morning light filtering in through the small window, casting a soft glow over the room. As she walked in, she was surprised to see Mrs. Jeon already there, moving gracefully yet tiredly, as if the night's harshness hadn't weighed down her spirit.

Tae felt a pang of sorrow. Mrs. Jeon, despite the pain and bruises she had endured, was once again taking up her daily duties without a hint of complaint.

Tae approached her with a gentle, comforting tone,

Tae- Maa-sa, you should rest. I can manage everything here.

Mrs. Jeon turned, her face momentarily softening in surprise.

Mrs. Jeon- Banno.. (she said, a faint smile forming) I have been doing this for years. There's no need to worry about me.

But Tae didn't back down, her eyes filled with genuine care.

Tae- I insist, Maa-sa. (she said firmly, yet with warmth) After... after everything, you shouldn't have to do this alone. Please, let me handle the preparations for the day. You should rest.

For a moment, Mrs. Jeon simply stared at her, a slight glimmer of emotion surfacing. In all her years, no one had ever asked to share her burdens or offered her rest.

She'd shouldered her duties silently, as every woman in the household was expected to. But Tae's gentle insistence brought forth a rare feeling-a strange mixture of gratitude and wonder.

She reached out, caressing Tae's cheek tenderly.

Mrs. Jeon- You have such a kind heart. (she murmured, her voice trembling slightly) My Jungkook... he's lucky to have you.

She leaned forward and pecked Tae's forehead, as if blessing her.

Mrs. Jeon- Thank you, but I am used to it. (she added softly) This work keeps me going.

Tae held her gaze, determination sparking in her eyes. She couldn't let her mother-in-law bear this pain alone, at least not without showing her some comfort.

Without another word, Tae moved to a small cabinet where she'd stored some herbs her mother had taught her to use for healing. Taking a small mortar and pestle, she began grinding them into a paste.

Mrs. Jeon watched curiously as Tae prepared the mixture.

Mrs. Jeon- What are you making, Banno?

Tae- It's a herbal remedy. Maa taught me... it helps with bruises and soreness.

Mrs. Jeon's eyes softened, a faint look of appreciation spreading across her face. Tae stepped closer, gently applying the paste to the bruises on Mrs. Jeon's arm. Mrs. Jeon winced at first but relaxed as the soothing balm began to ease the pain.

Mrs. Jeon- You didn't have to do this. But it means a lot to me.

Tae looked up, offering a gentle smile.

Tae- You shouldn't have to suffer in silence, Maa-sa. If there's anything I can do, I want to help.

They fell into a comfortable silence, Tae's hands steady as she worked. When she finished, Mrs. Jeon sighed deeply, a sense of relief washing over her.

Mrs. Jeon- Thank you, Banno. (she said softly, a hint of emotion cracking her usually composed voice)

As they shared this moment of closeness, Mrs. Jeon's thoughts drifted to another presence missing in the household. She looked at Tae, a touch of concern in her voice.