Beneath the Gilded Cage Beyond the Facade

Taehyung clears his throat, his cold gaze fixed on Jeongguk. Jeongguk's voice trembles as he says

Jeongguk

Good morning, eomeonim, abeonim, doreyonnim Doreyonnim~ brother-in-law ( husband's younger brother if he is unmarried)

Taehyung's mother sneers, his voice dripping with disgust.

Hyeon Woo

Your orphanage didn't even teach you basic manners, I assume.

Taehyung's brother, Taekyu, chimes in, his words venomous.

Kim Taekyu

Eomeoni, nobody from an orphanage gets married to a noble family. They're destined to become cheap prostitutès or get married to old rich alphas who have had several marriages before.

Taehyung's father objects, his face stern.

Kim Duho

Taekyu, you're forgetting Jeongguk is your brother's omega. And what's with this vulgar choice of words?

He turns to Taehyung, his eyes expectant.

Kim Duho

Can't you say anything to your brother? He's insulting your omega.

Jeongguk's eyes well up with tears, feeling utterly helpless and alone. He has nowhere to go, and on top of that, he has a secret to hide. Taehyung and his family hate him; God surely hates Jeongguk.

Taehyung's voice cuts through the tension, his words devoid of emotion.

Kim Taehyung

If my omega hasn't learned basic manners, then it's necessary he learns to adjust in this household. He is a part of this family now. He didn't even have a surname; now he bears our surname and maintaining the reputation of our family, and mine is his sole duty.

Taehyung's father frowns, his expression disapproving.

Kim Duho

I can't believe you've become an exact copy of your mother.

Taehyung ignores his father's comment and focuses on his food, his expression unreadable. Jeongguk, on the other hand, stares at his breakfast plate in awe. Baked beans, grilled tomatoes, accompanied by toast and butter, sausages, sunny-side-up eggs, avocado, and a selection of fruits are arranged before him. He's never had such a lavish breakfast in his 21 years of life.

But as he gazes at the array of utensils beside his plate, his confusion grows. So many spoons, forks, and knives lie before him, and he has no idea which one to use for each dish. His heart races, and he feels palpitations as he tries to make sense of the unfamiliar table setting. Jeongguk's eyes dart around the table, hoping to find a cue from the others, but Taehyung and his family seem engrossed in their own meals, oblivious to his distress.

Min-soo, Jeongguk's personal servant, stands silently behind him, his eyes filled with understanding. He recognizes Jeongguk's struggle, but he can't interfere in the family meal. His hands are clasped behind his back, his expression neutral, but his eyes betray his concern. Jeongguk, feeling Min-soo's gaze, almost cries out in frustration. He tries to mimic Taehyung's elegant movements, but his own hands tremble as he attempts to hold the fork. He's never used formal utensils before, and the feeling of the cool metal between his fingers is foreign.

Taehyung seems to glide through the meal with ease, his movements fluid and practiced. Jeongguk, on the other hand, feels like a clumsy outsider, his awkwardness on full display. He spears a sausage with his fork, but it slips off, landing on the edge of his plate with a soft plop. Min-soo's eyes dart to the floor, his lips pressed together to suppress a sympathetic smile. He knows Jeongguk's struggles all too well, but he's powerless to help in this moment.

Taehyung's gaze pierces through Jeongguk, his eyes narrowing in disgust. The white marble table now bears an unsightly stain, a reminder of Jeongguk's clumsiness. The sausage lies on the edge of the plate, a victim of Jeongguk's ineptitude.

Taehyung's frown deepens, his teeth gritted in annoyance.

Kim Taehyung

You don't even know how to hold a fork. What are you, a handicap?

He spits out, his voice venomous.

Jeongguk feels the sting of Taehyung's words, his eyes welling up with tears. He tries to hold them back, but they betray him, streaming down his face like a river. His vision blurs, and he looks away, humiliated. Taekyu and Taehyung's omega father frown, their expressions mirroring Taehyung's disgust. The elder omega's eyes land on Jeongguk's thighs, noticing the missing napkin that should have protected his clothes. Instead, Jeongguk's white shirt now bears a visible stain, a testament to his carelessness. The room falls silent, the only sound Jeongguk's quiet sobs. Min-soo's eyes dart to Jeongguk, his face a mask of concern, but he remains frozen in place, unable to intervene.

Taehyung's father, exasperated, intervenes

Kim Duho

Taehyung, stop scolding him, for God's sake!

He turns to the butler, Sung Bin, Min-soo's father, and instructs

Kim Duho

Give Jeongguk chopsticks.

But Taehyung immediately counters, his voice firm but calm

Kim Taehyung

His father frowns, surprised by Taehyung's defiance. Taehyung continues, his tone unwavering

Kim Taehyung

If he continues with chopsticks, he will never learn table etiquette. He needs to adapt to our customs.

Taehyung's father sighs, rubbing his temples, while Sung Bin hesitates, unsure of what to do. Jeongguk, still sniffling, looks up at Taehyung with a mix of fear and resentment, his eyes red from crying. Min-soo's eyes dart between Taehyung and Jeongguk, his expression a mask of concern.

Taekyu, Taehyung's brother, sneers at Jeongguk

Kim Taekyu

Stop crying, will ya! You're so annoying!

Jeongguk's tears only flow harder, his body shaking with sobs, Jeongguk's omega father-in-law, adds his own rebuke

Hyeon Woo

Jeongguk, your behavior is unbecoming of an omega in our household. Compose yourself.

Taekyu chimes in again

Kim Taekyu

Yeah, omegas are supposed to be elegant and refined, not blubbering messes like you.

Jeongguk's hiccups start, each word from his tormentors triggering another sob. Taehyung's father continues

Hyeon Woo

Your lack of decorum is a reflection on our family's name. I expect more from you, Jeongguk.

Taekyu snickers

Kim Taekyu

Maybe we should just feed him with a spoon, like a baby.

Jeongguk's hiccups intensify, his tears streaming down his face as he tries to catch his breath. Min-soo's eyes plead with Taehyung to intervene, but Taehyung remains stoic, his expression unyielding.

Duho, Taehyung's alpha father, slams his hand on the table, his patience worn thin.

Kim Duho

Will you two stop? Can't you see he's crying? Jeongguk, look at me!

Jeongguk's tear-stained face turns to Duho, his eyes red and puffy.

Duho's expression softens slightly as he says

Kim Duho

Don't cry! Taehyung will teach you everything.

Taehyung's frown deepens, his protest immediate.

Kim Taehyung

Me? Do you think I'll sit at home and babysit a 21-year-old omega?

Duho's calm demeanor remains unwavering.

Kim Duho

It's your duty to teach him everything, Taehyung.

Taehyung's smile is mocking as he says

Kim Taehyung

If he can't learn table etiquette by himself, don't give him meals until he learns. Hard times make people stronger.

With that, Taehyung excuses himself, his chair scraping against the floor. He stands, his eyes never leaving his father's face, and walks away, his shoes' heels clicking against the costly marble floor, the sound echoing through the silent room.

As the breakfast debacle comes to a close, Taehyung's father, Duho, watches with a heavy heart as his omega husband and younger son depart the table. He turns to Jeongguk, his voice laced with regret.

Kim Duho

Jeonggukie, my child I am sorry. This is all because of me. I thought marrying you to my son would be a good decision, but it seems like these people don't like you.

Jeongguk shakes his head, his eyes cast downward.

Jeongguk

No, abeonim It's not your fault. I'm the one who's lacking.

Duho's expression softens.

Kim Duho

Nonsense, child. You have a good heart. It's just...our family can be a bit...

Jeongguk takes a deep breath, determination etched on his face.

Jeongguk

I will learn, abeonim. I will learn everything and become someone whom they won't hate. I promise.

Duho's eyes mist, touched by Jeongguk's resilience.

Kim Duho

I believe in you, Jeongguk. And I will support you, no matter what.

Duho's gentle voice breaks the silence

Kim Duho

Jeongguk, finish your breakfast. Take your time, no need to rush.

With that, he excuses himself and makes his way to the parking as he has a case hearing today

Jeongguk's hands still tremble as he tries to hold his spoon. Min-soo, sensing his distress, offers a soft suggestion.

Yoon Min Soo

Don't rush, young master Jeongguk. There are many videos available on YouTube. Why don't you watch them? You'll find table etiquette there.

Jeongguk's eyes light up with gratitude as he bites his lower lip

Jeongguk

Thank you, Min-soo-ah.

With renewed determination, Jeongguk finishes his breakfast at his own pace. Afterward, he retires to his room, but it's only a matter of seconds before he feels a wave of nausea wash over him. He rushes to the bathroom, barely making it to the toilet before emptying his stomach.

Sweat drips from his forehead as he leans against the cool tile, his breath ragged. He whispers under his breath

Jeongguk

I can't hide it any longer...

The weight of his secret threatens to crush him, and Jeongguk knows he can't keep up the charade much longer. But what will happen when the truth comes to light?

Jeongguk spends hours watching YouTube videos on table etiquette, his world spinning as he tries to absorb the new information. He knows he won't become a pro in a day or a week, but he's determined to learn. As the day wears on, Jeongguk skips lunch, feeling nauseated at the thought of eating. He can't let anyone know about his secret yet, so he keeps to himself.

In the evening, he craves something comforting and decides to treat himself to peach coffee cake with tea. As he savors the sweet, warm flavors, he thanks the almighty that he doesn't have to endure dinner with Taehyung's family. Breakfast is already a challenge, but at least he has some respite during the other meals. After dinner, Jeongguk returns to his YouTube tutorials, his eyes glued to the screen as he practices his table manners. As the videos continue to play, his eyelids grow heavy, and he eventually falls asleep, the soft voice of the instructor still guiding him through the world of etiquette.

Taehyung strides through the opulent foyer, his exhaustion evident despite his triumphant smile. Winning three high-profile cases back-to-back is a testament to his exceptional skill and reputation as the go-to lawyer for the influential and wealthy. His fees, a staggering 20 times higher than his peers, are a reflection of his unparalleled expertise and the prestige of his royal lineage.

As he enters his private chamber, Taehyung is greeted by the soft glow of crystal chandeliers and the gentle hum of luxurious amenities. His every need is catered to, his every desire anticipated. He has never known struggle

Never had to fight for anything. Everything has always been served to him on a gold platter, courtesy of his privileged upbringing and formidable fate.

With a weary sigh, Taehyung sheds his tailored suit, revealing a crisp, white dress shirt beneath. He pours himself a glass of fine scotch, his eyes drifting to the stunning cityscape beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows. His thoughts, however, linger on the one person who has managed to pierce the armor of his gilded existence - Jeongguk, the omega who has unwittingly captured his attention and stirred something deep within him.

Taehyung's gaze lingers on the city view for a moment before he turns to face the soft knock at his chamber door.

Kim Taehyung

Come in

He says, his deep voice resonating through the room.

His secretary, Kang Do Yoon, enters with a bow.

Kang Do Yoon

Sir, it's 11:30 already. You won three cases today and then met with clients. I think you should head home now.

Taehyung nods, acknowledging Kang Do Yoon's concern. Despite his young age, Kang Do Yoon has proven to be an exceptional secretary, graduating two years ago with honors and quickly rising through the ranks to become Taehyung's right-hand man.

Kim Taehyung

Yes, I should go now. You too, Do Yoon. Go home and rest. You've earned it

Taehyung says, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he smiles.

Kang Do Yoon bows again, his expression grateful.

Kang Do Yoon

Thank you, sir. I'll make sure to finalize the documents for tomorrow's cases before I leave.

With a nod, Taehyung dismisses Kang Do Yoon, his mind already shifting to the comforts of his home and the prospect of a well-deserved rest. Little does he know, his thoughts will soon be occupied by a certain omega, Jeongguk, and the intriguing dynamics of their complicated relationship.

Taehyung returns home at 12:46 am, exhausted from his long day in court. As he enters his bedroom, he's met with the peaceful sight of Jeongguk sleeping, his phone still clutched in his hand. The screen shows a YouTube channel on table etiquette, and Taehyung's frown deepens. What is Jeongguk doing watching this?

Despite his better judgment, Taehyung's lawyer mind fails him, and he can't control himself. He carefully picks up Jeongguk's phone and searches his KakaoTalk messages. But there's nothing suspicious, no secret conversations or hidden agendas. In fact, Jeongguk doesn't seem to have a single friend. No social life at all.

Taehyung's eyes scan the phone, his curiosity getting the better of him. And then, they land on a file. A prescription from a hospital, and a pregnancy test report. The word "positive" jumps out at him, and Taehyung's jaw clenches.

Kim Taehyung

So I was right. Jeongguk is indeed pregnant.

Taehyung's mind flashes back to the conversation with his father two weeks ago. His father, the owner of the prestigious Tender Hearts Orphanage, had told him about a young omega boy who had become an adult and had nowhere to go. In Gorae, people become adults at 20, and this boy, Jeongguk, was already 21, having been held back a year in high school. The head of the orphanage wanted Jeongguk to get married, but there were no suitable grooms. Who would want to marry an orphan? Taehyung's father had suggested that Taehyung himself consider marrying Jeongguk, citing his own age, 37, and upcoming birthday in December, he would be 38.

Taehyung had been least bothered about getting married, having his own reasons and secrets. But he had been curious about why the orphanage authority was so keen on getting Jeongguk married. So, he had pulled some strings and got the shocking news: Jeongguk was four weeks pregnant at the time, and now, six weeks pregnant. Taehyung's eyes narrow as he looks at Jeongguk's peaceful face. He had suspected something was off, but he hadn't expected this. A pregnant omega, with no one to turn to, and the orphanage eager to get him married off. Taehyung's lawyer mind starts racing, sensing a deeper conspiracy.

Taehyung changes into his pyjamas, a sleek black set made of the finest silk, and heads to the balcony of his modern hanok home. The traditional architecture has been beautifully blended with contemporary design elements, creating a harmonious balance of old and new. The wooden floors creak softly beneath his feet as he walks towards the sliding glass doors, which lead to the spacious balcony. He lights his cigar, a rare and expensive blend, and takes a long drag. His smoking power is legendary, and he can finish an entire cigar in a few swift puffs. He finds the usual cigarettes too mild, too childish, and only indulges in the finest cigars.

As he steps out onto the balcony, the cool night air envelops him.The hanok's tiled roof stretches out before him, a gentle curve of dark blue tiles that seem to shimmer in the moonlight. The balcony itself is adorned with intricate wooden carvings, a testament to the craftsmanship of the hanok's designers. Taehyung leans against the railing, his eyes gazing out into the night as he puffs on his cigar. The smoke curls upwards, a lazy spiral that vanishes into the darkness. He is lost in thought, his mind still reeling from the discovery of Jeongguk's pregnancy. The cigar's smoke seems to fuel his thoughts, and he stands there, motionless, as the night wears on.

Taehyung's mind races with the implications of Jeongguk's pregnancy becoming public knowledge. He is King's nephew, his family's reputation is already under scrutiny. If it's discovered that Jeongguk was pregnant before their wedding, it would be a scandal of epic proportions. But Taehyung is a master strategist. He has his own secrets and reasons for agreeing to this marriage, and he's not about to let a little thing like a pregnancy get in the way. He puffs on his cigar, his eyes narrowing as he thinks.

Why would he, Taehyung, marry a pregnant orphan omega? It seems like a ridiculous question, but Taehyung knows that appearances can be deceiving. He has something to gain from this marriage, something that outweighs the potential risks. And so, he'll play the game. He'll smile and nod and pretend that he's the perfect husband, all while manipulating the situation to his advantage. After all, Taehyung doesn't lift a finger unless it benefits him directly. And this marriage... ah, this marriage is going to be very beneficial indeed.

Taehyung's eyes gleam with a calculating intensity as he gazes out into the night. His mind is a maze of twisted desires and ambitions, driven by a ruthless pursuit of power, wealth, and fame. Love is a weakness he cannot afford, a sentimental indulgence for the naive. Jeongguk, the orphan boy, is merely a pawn in his game, a means to an end. Taehyung's marriage to him is a strategic move, a calculated risk to further his own interests. No one can comprehend the depths of Taehyung's thoughts, the intricate web of motives and desires that drive him.

With an IQ of 152, Taehyung is a mastermind, always thinking several steps ahead. His heart is a fortress of ice, impenetrable and unyielding. He will stop at nothing to achieve his goals, crushing anyone who dares to stand in his way. And so, he will play the role of the devoted husband, all while manipulating Jeongguk to serve his own purposes. The world will see a perfect facade, a mask of charm and elegance, but beneath it, Taehyung's true nature will remain forever cold, forever calculating.

⋆.˚🦋༘⋆

The darkness of the night still lingers, but Jeongguk's eyes are already open, his mind racing with thoughts of the man beside him. He turns to face Taehyung, but the bed is empty, the sheets cold and unoccupied. Jeongguk's heart skips a beat as he scans the room, his eyes finally landing on Taehyung's figure in the rocking chair. The man is asleep, his hand touching the ground, a book on criminal justice systems resting on his chest.

Morning comes, and the first light of dawn creeps into the room, illuminating Taehyung's peaceful face. Jeongguk's gaze is drawn to him, taking in the sharp angles and gentle curves. He can't help but notice Taehyung's long eyelashes, the moles scattered across his skin like constellations in the night sky, his sharp nose, and beautiful lips. The Almighty surely took his time to create his favourite child.

Jeongguk's heart aches with a mix of emotions - fear, anxiety, and a hint of longing. He knows he can't afford to love Taehyung, not when the man is so far out of his reach. Taehyung is a luxury he can't afford, a priceless treasure he can only admire from afar. As he looks at Taehyung, Jeongguk feels like a small boat adrift in a stormy sea, helpless against the waves of his own emotions. He knows he must be careful, that loving Taehyung would only lead to heartbreak and ruin.

With a quiet sigh, Jeongguk turns away, his eyes stinging with unshed tears. He can't afford to love Taehyung, but he can't help the way his heart beats faster when he looks at him, the way his soul reaches out to the man like a supplicant to a god.

Jeongguk's eyes cloud over as memories flood his mind. He has faced unimaginable hardships in the orphanage, scars that will never fully heal. But amidst the darkness, there were moments of kindness, glimpses of a man who would change his life forever. Taehyung, with his chiseled features and regal bearing, had visited the orphanage several times, bringing gifts and warmth to the forgotten children. Jeongguk was 16 when he first saw him, and a sharp pang had pierced his heart. He couldn't understand the feeling then, but later, he realized he had fallen deeply in love with the man.

The problem was, Taehyung was 17 years older, a member of the royal family, and utterly unattainable. Jeongguk knew he could never have him, that their worlds were too far apart. Yet, he couldn't help the way his heart skipped a beat whenever Taehyung was near. Now, as he gazes at Taehyung's peaceful face, Jeongguk feels the familiar ache in his chest. He knows he must keep his feelings hidden, locked away forever. For in this world, some secrets are too dangerous to reveal.

Taehyung's eyes flutter open, and the sunlight dancing across the room illuminates his iris, making his eyes sparkle like diamonds. He stretches, arching his back, and yawns, revealing his perfect teeth. As he sits up, his gaze meets Jeongguk's, who quickly looks away, trying to hide the fact that he was staring.

Taehyung smirks, accustomed to people drooling over his beauty.

Kim Taehyung

Today is Saturday

He says, his voice low and smooth.

Kim Taehyung

We need to visit my paternal grandparents in Hahoe Village. They couldn't attend our wedding due to their advanced age.

Jeongguk nods, still avoiding eye contact.

Taehyung continues

Kim Taehyung

We'll return Sunday night, as I have work on Monday. And when is your university entrance exam?

Jeongguk hesitates before answering

Jeongguk

In December, second week.

Taehyung's expression turns serious.

Kim Taehyung

Study well, Jeongguk. You must get into a prestigious university. I won't have people saying my omega is worthless and lacks intelligence. Do you understand?

Jeongguk nods, feeling a surge of pressure.

Jeongguk

I will try...

Taehyung's voice is firm.

Kim Taehyung

You have to. I expect nothing but the best from you.

Jeongguk's fingers begin to fidget once more as Taehyung heads to the shower. What if Taehyung's grandparents disapprove of him too? The thought sends a wave of anxiety through his chest. As he waits for his turn to shower, Jeongguk's mind races with worst-case scenarios. He can't shake off the feeling of being an outcast, an orphan who doesn't belong in Taehyung's world.

When he emerges from the bathroom, Taehyung is nowhere to be seen. Jeongguk's heart skips a beat as he searches the empty rooms. Where could he be? He makes his way to the dining room, and that's when he sees Taehyung, sitting alone at the table, sipping a cup of coffee. The morning light streaming through the window highlights his chiseled features, making him look even more regal.

Jeongguk's heart aches as he takes in the sight. He feels like an intruder, a trespasser in Taehyung's life. He hesitates, wondering if he should join him or retreat to the safety of his room. Taehyung looks up, his eyes locking onto Jeongguk's, and for a moment, they just stare at each other, the air thick with unspoken words.

Taehyung gestures to the empty chair across from him, and Jeongguk hesitantly takes a seat. The table is spread with a traditional Korean breakfast, and the aroma of kimchi and rice fills the air. Jeongguk's stomach growls in anticipation. As he begins to eat, he can't help but feel a sense of relief wash over him. The tension in his shoulders eases, and he starts to relax in Taehyung's presence. But as he glances around the room, he notices the absence of Taehyung's parents.

Jeongguk keeps his head down, focusing on his breakfast, and doesn't dare ask about Taehyung's parents. He knows better than to initiate conversation with Taehyung, who is not exactly friendly or approachable. Taehyung, too, remains silent, sipping his coffee and checking his phone. The only sound is the clinking of chopsticks against the bowl and the quiet hum of the air conditioner. The atmosphere is formal and tense, with an undercurrent of unease. Jeongguk can't help but feel like an outsider, a mere accessory in Taehyung's life. He finishes his breakfast quickly, waiting for Taehyung to give him further instructions.

Taehyung says.

Kim Taehyung

They'll have breakfast later. On weekends, they sleep in and have a late breakfast. We'll be leaving soon, so finish up.

Jeongguk nods and takes a bite of his breakfast, savoring the flavors.

⋆.˚🦋༘⋆

Jeongguk's eyes flutter open, disoriented, as Taehyung's voice pierces through the haze.

Kim Taehyung

Do you want to have snacks or something?

Taehyung asks, his tone neutral.

Jeongguk nods, still trying to shake off the sleep. He looks around, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings. They're parked in front of a quaint convenient store, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers. The scenery is breathtaking, a stark contrast to the urban jungle they left behind

Taehyung gets out of the car, leaving Jeongguk alone.

Kim Taehyung

I'll be right back

He says, his voice fading into the distance.

As Jeongguk waits, he takes in the beauty of their surroundings. The convenient store seems to be nestled in a picturesque village, with traditional Korean houses and winding roads. The air is crisp and clean, filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers. Jeongguk's eyes widen as he takes in the sights, feeling like he's entered a different world. He can't believe he's been sleeping for over four hours, missing out on the scenic route.

Taehyung returns with a bag of goodies, handing Jeongguk a selection of chips and cookies. Jeongguk's eyes light up as he accepts the snacks, a small smile playing on his lips.

Jeongguk

Thank you, Taehyungssi

Jeongguk says, his voice barely above a whisper.

Taehyung nods, his expression unreadable.

Kim Taehyung

Let's go

He says, putting the car in gear.

After another 30 minutes of driving, they finally arrive at Hahoe Village, the ancestral home of Taehyung's grandparents. The village is nestled in a picturesque valley, surrounded by rolling hills and towering trees. As they pull up to the traditional Korean house, Jeongguk can feel his nerves fluttering. He's about to meet Taehyung's grandparents, and he has no idea what to expect.

Taehyung gets out of the car, his movements fluid and confident.

Kim Taehyung

Let's go inside.

He says, gesturing for Jeongguk to follow.

Jeongguk takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the encounter ahead. He follows Taehyung to the entrance of the house, his heart pounding in his chest.

As they enter the traditional Korean house, Taehyung and Jeongguk are greeted by maids who bow respectfully. They are led directly to the room of Taehyung's grandparents, where they are met with warm smiles.

Taehyung's grandmother, Minja, beams with delight.

Lim Minja

Taehyungie, your bride is the prettiest!

She exclaims, her eyes twinkling.

Taehyung's grandfather, Joonoh, nods in agreement.

Kim Joonoh

Sorry we couldn't attend your wedding, but we bless you with an abundance of love and happiness

He says, his voice warm and gentle.

Halmoni Minja turns to Jeongguk and presents him with a beautiful jade ring.

Lim Minja

Your gift, new bride

She says, her hands trembling with age.

Jeongguk's eyes widen in surprise, and he smiles wholeheartedly as he accepts the gift.

Jeongguk

Gamsahamnida, Halmoni

He says, bowing his head in gratitude.

Taehyung watches the exchange, his expression unreadable, but a hint of softness in his eyes.

Jeongguk can't help but stare at the jade ring, mesmerized by its beauty and how perfectly it complements his skin tone. He feels a sense of wonder and gratitude towards Halmoni Minja.

As Jeongguk sips his tea, he overhears the maids whispering in the corner. They're speaking in hushed tones, but he catches snippets of their conversation.

Maid 1: "I heard grandma and grandpa didn't attend the wedding because Taehyungssi's mother doesn't like them."

Maid 2: "Yes, the way he talks to his in-laws, why would they go? He's always been so disrespectful."

Maid 3: "Poor old people, they couldn't even attend their oldest grandson's wedding. It's a shame."

Maid 1: "I know, it's heartbreaking. They must have been so hurt."

Maid 2: "And now Taehyungssi's mother is stuck with an orphan omega son-in-law. I'm sure he is not thrilled about that either."

Maid 3: "Let's just hope Taehyungssi doesn't treat Jeonggukssi the way his mother treats his in-laws."

Taehyung, oblivious to the maids' gossip, sits serenely, his expression unreadable. Jeongguk, however, feels a shiver run down his spine, intimidated by the complex web of relationships and expectations within the royal family.

Taehyung and Jeongguk are led to their room, a beautifully decorated space with traditional Korean furnishings. They change into comfortable clothes, Jeongguk feeling a sense of relief as he sheds his formal attire. Taehyung, now dressed in a simple white hanbok, bids Jeongguk to rest while he visits his grandparents. Jeongguk nods, watching as Taehyung exits the room with a spring in his step.

As Taehyung enters his grandparents' room, Jeongguk can sense a change in him. He seems to shed his aloof exterior, revealing a childlike attitude that Jeongguk hasn't seen before. Taehyung's smile is genuine, his laughter warm, and his eyes sparkle with affection as he greets his grandparents. Jeongguk can't help but feel a pang of curiosity, wondering what Taehyung's relationship with his grandparents is like. He seems to adore them, and they clearly love him dearly.

But as Taehyung leaves the room, Jeongguk's thoughts are interrupted by his own needs. He quickly makes his way to the bathroom, locking the door behind him.. He takes a few deep breaths, trying to calm his racing heart.

When he returns, he finds Taehyung standing in the middle of the room, a deep frown etched on his face.

Kim Taehyung

You were throwing up? Are you sick?

Taehyung asks, his voice firm

Jeongguk's eyes widen as he feels a shiver run down his spine. He hadn't expected Taehyung to notice.

Jeongguk

N-no, I'm fine

Jeongguk stammers, trying to brush it off.

Taehyung's eyes narrow, his gaze piercing.

Kim Taehyung

Don't lie to me, Jeongguk. I know what I heard.

His voice is low and even, but Jeongguk can sense a hint of anger beneath the surface.

Jeongguk's heart races as he tries to come up with an excuse, but his mind goes blank. He's trapped, and Taehyung's intense gaze makes him feel like he's been caught in a lie.