Unbinding Tradition

46. Wanna see your bolder side 😉

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The gentle light of dawn crept through the window, casting a warm glow over Tae and Jungkook as they lay wrapped in each other's embrace under the bedsheets.

Tae lay nestled on Jungkook's chest, his arm draped protectively around her waist. Her eyes fluttered open first, adjusting to the early morning light. Blinking softly, she gazed down at Jungkook, still fast asleep beneath her.

She couldn't help but smile at the peaceful expression on his face. His hair was tousled, falling messily across his forehead, and for a moment, he looked boyish, almost like a child.

A quiet giggle escaped her as she carefully brushed his hair back, revealing his forehead. Instantly, his look shifted from boyish to something undeniably strong and masculine, a reminder of the man he was—the man everyone respected and sometimes feared. But to her, he was something else entirely.

Lost in thought, she leaned down, pressing a light, tender kiss on his cheek, memories of the night before flooding her mind. A soft smile curved her lips as she remembered his gentleness, the way he held her and moved with such care.

The Collector everyone knew—tough and serious—was, in her eyes, the kindest, most gentle soul. She felt her heart swell with gratitude, silently thanking the heavens for bringing him into her life.

Carefully, she shifted to sit up, only to wince slightly, feeling a slight ache from the night before. She pulled the bedsheet up to her chest and took a breath, adjusting as she tried to rise.

At the movement, Jungkook stirred beside her, his face scrunching up slightly as he whined, eyes still closed. She watched, amused, as his hand reached out as if seeking the warmth he'd lost. Finally, he rubbed his eyes, slowly waking up, and opened them, a lazy smile appearing when he saw her.

He sat up, moving closer to her and slipping his arm around her shoulder. His sleepy gaze softened as he leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead.

Jk- Are you feeling okay? (he asked, voice soft with concern)

Tae nodded, resting her head on his shoulder.

Tae- I am. (she murmured, comforted by his presence)

He took her hand, bringing it to his lips to kiss her knuckles.

Jk- Tomorrow… (he began, his tone reluctant) we'll have to return to the village.

He sighed, almost as if he was resisting the very thought of leaving.

Tae hummed in agreement, though she noticed the way he trailed off.

Tae- Don't you want to go back?

Jungkook chuckled softly, tightening his hold around her shoulders.

Jk- Only because Jiminee's there. (he replied, a soft, affectionate smile lighting up his face) I miss her more than anything.

Tae- You love her so much.

Jk- Yeah.

Tae- Even more than me? (she asked in a playful way)

With a playful smirk, Jungkook leaned forward, gently tapping her cheek.

Jk- Absolutely. I love her more than anything—even you.

Tae's laughter was a soft, joyful sound as she responded,

Tae- I understand. I love Jiminee, too. She is such a sweet child. (she said; as her mind recalled Jm's infectious laughter)

A thoughtful look crossed Tae's face as she absentmindedly began tracing circles on Jungkook's fingers, her fingers brushing over his wedding ring. A question formed in her mind, one she couldn't resist asking.