Unbinding Tradition

71. Healing ✨

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The room was silent, save for the soft flickering of the diya near the window. The scent of sandalwood lingered faintly in the air, mixing with the cool breeze that seeped in through the partially open window.

Jungkook lay across Tae’s lap, his breathing slow and steady, his tear-streaked face relaxed for the first time in months. His body, always so tense and rigid, had finally succumbed to exhaustion.

Tae gently ran her fingers through his hair, her touch featherlight.

Her gaze softened as she took in his face—the damp trails of dried tears, the slight redness of his nose, the faint crease between his brows that hadn’t fully disappeared even in sleep. He had cried for hours, the weight of his grief finally pouring out after being locked away for so long.

She let out a quiet sigh, brushing away the stray strands of hair from his forehead.

"Sa," she whispered, though she knew he wouldn’t hear her.

With the utmost care, she shifted his head off her lap, lowering it onto the pillow. He stirred slightly, his brows furrowing for a brief second before his body relaxed again.

Pulling the blanket over him, she caressed his cheek softly before leaning down to place a gentle kiss on his forehead.

Tae- Rest now. (she murmured) You need it.

She sat beside him for a few more moments, watching his chest rise and fall in a steady rhythm. Then, with a deep breath, she stood up and stepped out of the room.

As she entered the kitchen, the warmth of freshly prepared food greeted her. The soft clinking of utensils could be heard as Jasoda Kaki arranged the dishes on the counter.

Upon spotting Tae, Jasoda Kaki immediately turned to her with a welcoming smile.

Jasoda- Sethani, shall I serve you and Seth? (she asked, her tone as gentle as ever)

Tae shook her head slightly, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.

Tae- Sa is sleeping, Kaki. When he wakes up, I will serve him myself.

Jasoda Kaki nodded in understanding.

Jasoda- Then let me serve you. You must eat.

Tae didn’t protest. She had learned by now that arguing with Jasoda Kaki was of no use when it came to food.

She settled on the chair as Jasoda Kaki began serving her warm rotis, dal, and a simple sabzi.

Raghu Kaka, who had just finished his evening chores, joined them, sitting beside Jasoda Kaki.

The three of them ate quietly, exchanging occasional small talk about the day’s happenings. The warmth of home, the simplicity of shared meals—these small things provided a fleeting comfort in the midst of everything.

Once she finished, Tae washed her hands and thanked Jasoda Kaki before heading back to her room.

As she entered, the room was just as she had left it—dimly lit, peaceful, with Jungkook still fast asleep.

Tae changed into a more comfortable cotton gown and carefully settled onto the bed beside him.

She let out a soft sigh as she rested a hand on her baby bump.

Tae- You have been very naughty today. (she murmured, rubbing slow circles over her stomach)

The little one responded with another gentle kick, making Tae close her eyes briefly.