Unbinding Tradition

90. Complexities of marriage 😟

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The afternoon sun hung mercilessly over the village, casting sharp rays through the dust-filled streets. Inside his office, Jungkook sat behind his large wooden desk, flipping through documents. His face was tight with concentration, but his mind felt heavy.

Before he could dwell on it any longer, the distant sound of shouting broke his focus. He stiffened, his fingers tightening around the pen in his hand.

A few seconds later, his assistant, Ravi, burst into the room, his face pale.

Ravi- Sir, there's a crowd outside..A mob, actually. The landowners, the Sarpanch, their men—there are at least a hundred of them. They’re shouting slogans, demanding to see you.

Jungkook’s eyes darkened. He stood up, his movements sharp.

Jk- I was expecting this. (he muttered, grabbing his coat before striding toward the door)

Outside, the district office courtyard was packed with angry men. Rich landowners draped in silk dhotis and heavy turbans stood in the front, their faces twisted in rage. Behind them, laborers and villagers, manipulated by fear and greed, joined in the protest.

"STOP BUILDING THE SCHOOL!! THIS LAND BELONGS TO US!! COLLECTOR COME OUT!!"

Jungkook stepped outside, his presence immediately silencing a few voices. His sharp eyes scanned the mob before settling on Sarpanch Raghunandan—one of the most influential and corrupt men in the region.

Jungkook crossed his arms.

Raghunandan- What is this nonsense? (his voice was cold, cutting through the humid air)

He stepped forward, a smirk playing on his lips.

Raghunandan- Collector Sahib... (he said mockingly) we’re here to protest against your stubbornness. We’ve been telling you for years—the land where your Jeon Haveli once stood is needed for something useful, not a foolish school for girls.

A chorus of agreement rippled through the crowd.

“We need a bridge,” another man shouted.

“A proper road for merchants, not a place for women to learn useless things!”

Jungkook’s jaw clenched. His fists curled at his sides, but he kept his voice controlled.

Jk- That land was legally acquired for public welfare. A school benefits everyone. A bridge can be built elsewhere.

Raghunandan- Elsewhere? You expect traders and noblemen to take a longer route just so you can fill this village with educated women? It is unnatural!

Jungkook took a step forward, his glare piercing.

Jk- And keeping women in ignorance is natural?

The mob murmured among themselves. Some of the younger men shifted uncomfortably, unsure whether to agree or remain silent.

Raghunandan’s face darkened.

Raghunandan- This is not just about the school, Collector Sahib. You are defying tradition. And if you continue to force your ways onto us, you will face consequences.

Jungkook let out a bitter chuckle.

Jk- Consequences? (he took another step forward, standing inches from Raghunandan) Do you think I am afraid of threats?

The Sarpanch’s face twitched.

Raghunandan- You should be. (he muttered)

Without warning, one of the landowners spat at Jungkook’s feet.