Unbinding Tradition

110. It had been worth it! ✨

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The golden rays of the early morning sun seeped through the carved windows of the Jeon Residence, casting intricate patterns on the marble floor. A cool breeze drifted in, carrying the fresh scent of wet earth and the distant chiming of temple bells.

Today was the day.

The village's very first school, where both boys and girls would be allowed to study together, was finally opening. For years, Tae had fought for this moment, enduring endless resistance from the village elders, men who scoffed at the idea of girls holding books instead of brooms. But today, her dream; their dream was becoming a reality.

Tae stood before the large wooden mirror in their bedroom, carefully pinning her dupatta over her simple yet elegant lehenga. It was a rich shade of emerald green, embroidered with golden threads in delicate motifs. The fabric shimmered softly under the morning light, giving her an ethereal glow.

Jungkook, standing just behind her, was busy fixing his hair, his reflection meeting hers in the mirror. Dressed in a crisp white kurta with golden embroidery along the collar and cuffs, he looked every bit the authoritative figure he was-the Divisional Commissioner, the man whose mere presence demanded respect.

Tae stole a glance at him. Even at forty-three, time had done little to dull his sharp features. His jawline remained as defined as ever, his gaze still as intense. If anything, the streaks of wisdom lining his face only made him look more distinguished.

As he finished styling his hair, he picked up his watch from the dresser and strapped it around his wrist.

Jk- I'll leave now. (he said, his deep voice breaking the comfortable silence) I have to pick my friends from the station. I've invited them as well.

Tae, who was adjusting the pleats of her pallu, turned around, curiosity lighting up her face.

Tae- Who? (she asked) Yoongi Bhai-sa and Hobi Bhai-sa?

Jungkook nodded, buttoning the cuffs of his kurta.

Jk- Yes. Jinie and her husband too.

Tae's eyes widened in surprise.

Tae- Really, Sa? (she squealed, her voice laced with excitement) Namjoon Bhai-sa is also coming?

Jungkook smirked at her reaction.

Jk- Well, I invited them. Jinie is for sure coming, but I don't know about your Bhai-sa.

Tae rolled her eyes playfully.

Tae- Oh, please! If Jinie Bhabhi is coming, then Bhai-sa will obviously come too.

Jungkook chuckled at her certainty, shaking his head as he adjusted his cufflinks. Tae's excitement was understandable-Namjoon was not just a close friend but the brother figure she had cherished since childhood. Having him present at such a significant event meant the world to her.

Still smiling, Tae returned to getting ready. She reached for the small silver sindoor box and dipped her fingers inside, carefully filling the parting of her hair with the deep red powder. The act was second nature to her now, a daily ritual that bound her to Jungkook in more ways than one.

Jungkook, watching her through the mirror, sighed.

Jk- Listen... (he said, his tone slightly serious now) Ask Jiminee to wear proper clothes today. She's in the village, not in the city. She needs to understand what is appropriate here.

Tae frowned slightly, turning to face him again.

Tae- But her dress yesterday was proper.

Jungkook shook his head.