Unbinding Tradition

41. The City calls 🤩

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A month had passed since Jungkook had begun bringing Jiminee out more frequently, despite the disapproving stares and long lectures from his family. It seemed that every family member, especially Dadi-sa, had something to say about it. But to Jungkook, all of those scoldings faded in comparison to Jiminee's laughter and her beaming smile. Her joy was worth the trouble he faced at home.

But Tae wasn't exempt from the family's scoldings either. Dadi-sa was relentless, taunting her about every change she saw in Jungkook and about her supposed "failure" to give the family an heir.

Though Tae tried to stay strong, there were moments when Dadi-sa's words cut deep—especially when the taunts turned to curses or harsh remarks about Tae's family, her upbringing, and the way she had been raised.

Yet Tae held her head high, pretending not to hear, focusing instead on her studies. She knew her exams were fast approaching, and her grades meant everything to her. But her heart grew heavy with a single worry: the exams were in a different city, and she didn't know how the family members would respond to her needing to travel.

One bright, warm afternoon, Jungkook and Tae took Jiminee to a nearby garden. Jungkook had lifted Jiminee onto the swing, pushing her gently, while her joyful giggles filled the air.

Tae stood nearby, smiling at Jiminee, but her mind was preoccupied, the shadow of worry clear on her face. She didn't notice Jungkook glancing at her, his expression softening with concern.

After a moment, Jungkook gently asked Jiminee to go play on the slide, and she skipped off, leaving Jungkook alone with Tae. He walked over to her, stopping just beside her.

Jk- What's bothering you?

Tae looked up at him, hesitating, unsure how to put her worries into words. But his gaze was steady and patient, so she took a breath and finally spoke, her voice quiet.

Tae- My exams… they're in the city, and… I don't know if I'll be allowed to go. I'm not sure if I should even bring it up with the family.

Jungkook's expression changed, his jaw tightening as he processed her words. He seemed to think for a moment before answering in a calm but resolute tone.

Jk- Don't mention this to anyone. I'll take care of it.

Tae- You.. You'll… handle it? (she repeated, her voice barely a whisper)

She hadn't expected him to agree so quickly, let alone promise to handle the entire matter himself.

He nodded, his tone firm.

Jk- Yeah. You have every right to go and give your exams, and no one's going to stop you from pursuing something important to you. But, not a word of this to anyone. I'll make sure you get there.

Relief washed over her, and without thinking, she wrapped her arms around his arm, resting her head against his shoulder.

Tae- Thank you Sa. You are doing so much for me. (she murmured, her voice filled with gratitude)

Jungkook relaxed, letting out a small sigh, though he tried to play it off with a slight shrug.

Jk- Just focus on doing well. (he replied, though there was a gentle warmth in his tone)

They stood together, watching Jiminee who had already climbed up the slide and was now sliding down with a big smile. The garden was calm, with the warm glow of the afternoon sun. The sound of birds chirping and the gentle breeze moving the leaves made the moment even more peaceful.