The Omega's Choice | Taejin

Thirty-Eight

One year later

******

"Thank you for trusting me to guide you during this time," Namjoon said as he addressed the crowd. "To be completely honest, I am still navigating this path myself, learning and adapting as we move forward together. It means a lot to me that each of you has chosen to lend your trust and support as we work collectively to rebuild our community and foster unity within our Kingdom."

He paused, taking a moment to appreciate the faces gathered before him, reflecting on the resilience and hope that had emerged from a challenging year. "On this special day, I encourage you to let go of your worries and indulge in the festivities. Everything you see around you has been prepared with care, specifically for you. It is a celebration of our achievements, both big and small, and a testament to the strength we possess when we stand together."

Namjoon's heart swelled with gratitude as he looked out over the crowd, fully aware of the difficulties they had faced. Although his position as King was meant to be temporary, he committed himself wholeheartedly to serving the people.

As he walked away from giving his speech, Namjoon couldn't help but smile, his spirit lifted by the round of applause that resonated in the air. When his gaze landed on his husband, Yoongi, standing proudly by the royal table, he became even happier. Yoongi was clapping happily, a bright smile on his face, a sight that made Namjoon's heart swell even more.

"How did I do?" Namjoon asked Yoongi, eager for his husband's opinion as he closed the distance between them.

"You did amazing, as expected," Yoongi replied. "They love you."

Namjoon maintained his smile, but as words momentarily evaded him, he turned his attention to the royal family table, his gaze drifting toward two empty chairs that stood out. A pang of sadness was felt, an ache that reminded him of the lingering absence.

Yoongi, aware of the emotions his husband was experiencing, followed Namjoon's gaze. A deep sigh escaped his lips as he understood the unspoken hurt. It was a difficult time for both of them, and he felt at a loss despite wanting to offer words of comfort.

After a brief moment of shared silence, Yoongi gently grasped Namjoon's arm, pulling him away from the shadows of their thoughts. "Let's sit and eat. We should at least try to enjoy today. You've worked so hard for this moment."

"I thought at least Taehyung would've come," Namjoon mumbled.

"He hasn't stepped into the kingdom since he left," Yoongi replied. "What made you think he would show up today?"

"Because he told him we were going to use today also to celebrate our mother," Jimin interjected, appearing at Namjoon's side. "However, deep down, I knew he wasn't going to come—"

"Wrong," Yoongi interrupted, his expression morphing into shock as he stared ahead. The sudden shift drew Namjoon and Jimin's attention, their heads following Yoongi's line of sight. Their eyes widened in disbelief as they spotted Taehyung walking through the crowd.

"Wow, he came," Jimin murmured.

As Taehyung walked through the sea of people, he felt overwhelming discomfort. It was as though all eyes were fixated on him, making each step toward his brothers feel like a giant task. This was the last place he wanted to be, but the notice he had received from Namjoon and Jimin had compelled him to attend this gathering, honoring their mother in a way that he knew was important. Had it not been for that, he would have remained outside the Kingdom's walls.

"You came!" Jimin exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement as he hurried toward Taehyung and threw his arms around him. Taehyung stood frozen for a moment, his hands hanging awkwardly by his sides, until Jimin finally released him, sensing his discomfort. "Sorry, I was just excited to see you."