A pinch of forbidden ~ Hairpin
February's gentle breeze whispers through the curtains, carrying the sweet scent of blooming flowers into the room. Taehyung gazes at Jeongguk, who is standing before him with his pale face.
Kim Taehyung
Jeongguk, have you been vomiting?
Taehyung asks again, his voice casual.
Jeongguk's bites his lower lip, and he weakly shakes his head.
Taehyung nods, accepting Jeongguk's response without question. Before he can say more, a soft knock on the door breaks the silence.
Taehyung turns to see a maid, her face a picture of serenity, standing in the doorway.
" Excuse me, sir. I brought the tea you requested."
Taehyung nods, his eyes never leaving the maid's face.
Kim Taehyung
Thank you. Please, come in.
The maid glides into the room, her movements graceful, and places the tea tray on the coffee table. As she pours the steaming liquid into delicate cups, Taehyung's attention remains on the maid's efficient movements.
" Will there be anything else, sir?"
The maid asks, her voice barely above a whisper.
Taehyung's gaze shifts back to her.
Kim Taehyung
No, that's all. Thank you.
With a gentle bow, the maid exits the room, leaving Taehyung to focus on his tea, seemingly untroubled by Jeongguk's fragile state.
Taehyung lifts the delicate cup to his lips, savoring the soothing warmth of the tea as he takes a sip.
While sipping the tea slowly as he gazes at Jeongguk, who stands before him. Jeongguk's eyes are fixed on Taehyung's face as he asks
Jeongguk
Can I go outside and see the village around?
Taehyung's expression darkens, his brow furrowing as he takes another sip of his tea.
Kim Taehyung
It's almost evening, Jeongguk. Omegas aren't meant to wander around in the evening or night, and I won't risk your safety. Stay here, and tomorrow morning, I'll take you myself.
Jeongguk's face falls, his eyes clouding with disappointment. He looks down, his fingers beginning to fidget nervously.
Jeongguk's eyes scan the room frantically, searching for an escape route. Only two days into his arranged marriage with Taehyung, and he already feels suffocated. The alpha's reserved nature makes Jeongguk's skin crawl, and he can't shake the feeling that he's trapped in a loveless prison.
Taehyung sits across from him, sipping his tea with an air of calm detachment. Jeongguk's heart races as he thinks about the years ahead, bound to this stranger who shows no signs of affection or warmth.
Jeongguk's gaze darts to the door, his mind racing with possibilities. He has to escape, has to break free from this suffocating moment. But Taehyung's piercing eyes seem to sense his thoughts, and Jeongguk's courage falters.
With a surge of desperation, Jeongguk makes a move towards the door, his heart pounding in his chest.
He mutters, trying to sound calm.
Taehyung's expression doesn't change, but his voice is firm.
Kim Taehyung
You're not going anywhere, Jeongguk. We need to talk.
Jeongguk's fear spikes, but he knows he has to try. He takes another step towards the door, his eyes locked on Taehyung's, daring him to stop him.
Taehyung's eyes burn with intensity as he closes the distance between them, his face inches from Jeongguk's. Jeongguk's back presses against the wooden door, his heart racing with a mix of fear and adrenaline.
Kim Taehyung
When I say you're not allowed to go anywhere, it should be your sole duty to listen
Taehyung's voice is low and commanding.
Kim Taehyung
This is how omegas are born, Jeongguk. Don't you know that?
Jeongguk's tongue darts out, nervously wetting his lower lip. Taehyung's gaze follows the movement, his eyes flashing with a hint of possessiveness.
Kim Taehyung
You're married now
Taehyung continues, his voice firm but controlled.
Kim Taehyung
You'll take permission from me for every breath you take. You won't go outside alone. Do you understand?
Jeongguk's eyes widen, his chest heaving with shallow breaths. He's trapped, both physically and emotionally, by the man standing before him. Taehyung's dominance is suffocating, yet tantalizing, leaving Jeongguk unsure whether to submit or rebel.
A soft knock on the door breaks the tense silence between Taehyung and Jeongguk.
Taehyung calls out, his grip on Jeongguk's wrist still firm.
The door opens, and a maid enters with a respectful bow.
" Young Master Taehyung, your grandparents request your presence. They've asked for both you and young master Jeongguk to join them. "
Taehyung's eyes narrow slightly, but he nods curtly.
He says to Jeongguk, his voice firm.
Without releasing Jeongguk's hand, Taehyung leads him out of the room, his strides purposeful. Jeongguk follows, his heart racing with anticipation and a hint of fear. What do Taehyung's grandparents want with him?
As they approach the grandparents' room, Taehyung's grip on Jeongguk's hand tightens, a subtle reminder of his claim. Jeongguk's pulse quickens, his senses heightened, wondering what lies ahead.
Taehyung's grandmother smiles warmly, her eyes twinkling with delight.
Lim Minja
You seem to love your new bride a lot, Taehyung.
His grandfather nods in agreement, his gaze drifting to Jeongguk.
Kim Joonoh
Yes, and it's natural. Look at him, he's so pretty.
Taehyung's grip on Jeongguk's hand remains firm, his fingers intertwined with Jeongguk's in a possessive hold. Jeongguk gazes up at Taehyung with wide, innocent eyes, his expression soft and trusting.
But beneath the surface, a different reality lurks. Jeongguk is unaware of the true nature of Taehyung's grasp. To Taehyung, Jeongguk is a prized possession, a beautiful object to be claimed and controlled. The firm hold on his hand is not a gesture of love, but a display of ownership.
Jeongguk's innocence is a fragile thing, a delicate flower blooming in a world that may soon crush it. He believes Taehyung's grip is a sign of affection, but in reality, it's a symbol of his captivity.
Taehyung's grandparents exchange a nostalgic glance.
Kim Joonoh
We haven't spoken to our youngest grandson in so long. We can't make video calls ourselves, would you mind calling him for us? We'd love to see him.
Taehyung nods, releasing Jeongguk's hand to retrieve his phone.
Kim Taehyung
Sure, just a second.
As Taehyung dials the number, Jeongguk takes a step back, his eyes fixed on the screen. He's never seen Taehyung's youngest brother before, but he's heard of him - he is Taehyung's omega brother Taekyu's twin brother. He is 6 minutes younger than Taekyu. Taehyung's prime alpha the youngest brother, who's studying law in Britain.
As Taehyung dials the number, Jeongguk takes a step back, his eyes fixed on the screen. The call connects, and Taehyung's grandparents smile as they see their youngest grandson's face. But Jeongguk's view is blocked by Taehyung's shoulder, and he can't see the screen.
" Ah, halmeoni, harabeoji! "
A deep, raspy voice says, sending shivers down Jeongguk's spine. The voice is eerily similar to Taehyung's, and Jeongguk feels a shiver run down his arms.
Taehyung's grandparents chat with their youngest grandson, laughing and smiling. Jeongguk listens, entranced by the sound of the voice, wondering who this person is and why their voice has such an effect on him. Despite not seeing the face, Jeongguk feels a strange connection to the voice.
Taehyung's grandmother asks
Lim Minja
Have you seen Jeonggukie, dear?
The voice on the phone responds
" No, I haven't seen my big brother's newlywed wife yet."
Taehyung's grandmother presses
Lim Minja
Would you like to see him?
" I'll meet him once I return to Gorae."
Taehyung starts talking to his brother, his tone casual.
Kim Taehyung
Hey, Junior. How's school?
Jeongguk listens, feeling a sense of detachment. He still doesn't know his youngest brother-in-law's name, and the irony isn't lost on him. He's already sensing that he's unmatched in this royal family, where everyone seems to know each other's business except for him.
As Taehyung continues chatting with his brother, Jeongguk feels like an outsider, a stranger in a world where he's supposed to belong. He wonders what other secrets and relationships he's yet to uncover in this complex web of family dynamics.
Jeongguk's eyes widen as he listens to Taehyung's brother teasing him in English.
" Big bro, must be tired as hell. That's why he forgot to call me "
The brother says with a chuckle.
Kim Taehyung
Nothing like that, I was busy.
Taehyung's brother continues
" Oh, I know you were busy in bed."
Jeongguk's face flushes red as he understands the implication.
Taehyung's grandparents, oblivious to the English conversation, stare at each other's faces, smiling.
" Don't let brother-in-law have rest, I want 10 nephews and nieces."
Jeongguk's eyes dart to Taehyung, his face burning with embarrassment.
Kim Taehyung
He can't conceive that many babies, Junior. Stop daydreaming.
But Taehyung's brother persists, his laughter echoing through the phone.
" It's your duty to make sure his womb is never empty. I want 10 nephews and nieces!"
Jeongguk's face grows even redder as he realizes the brother is joking about him having children with Taehyung.
Kim Taehyung
Stop joking and tell me when you'll return.
" I won't return before I complete my master's degree, but I've sent a gift for your newlywed. "
Taehyung's curiosity is piqued.
Kim Taehyung
Want to talk to him?
" No, let it be a surprise for him. I'll meet him later. I'm not going anywhere, we're family."
Taehyung nods, even though his brother can't see him.
Kim Taehyung
Alright, take care and focus on your studies.
" Will do, big bro. Take care of your newlywed. I'll talk to you later."
The call ends, and Taehyung turns to Jeongguk, who's still looking flustered from the earlier conversation. Taehyung's expression softens, and he says
Kim Taehyung
My brother sent a gift for you. You'll like it.
Jeongguk's eyes widen in surprise, unsure what to expect from Taehyung's brother.
Taehyung's grandmother turns to Jeongguk with a warm smile.
Lim Minja
Can you cook, new bride?
Jeongguk nods his head, trying to appear confident.
The grandmother's face lights up.
Lim Minja
Then you will cook for us tomorrow. It's a ritual for new brides to cook for the family.
Jeongguk nods again, but inside, he starts to panic. His heart races with anxiety as he thinks about cooking for the entire royal family. What if he makes a mistake? What if his food isn't good enough?
Taehyung's grandmother continues
Lim Minja
We're looking forward to trying your cooking. I'm sure it will be delicious.
Jeongguk forces a smile, trying to hide his growing unease. He has no idea what he's gotten himself into.
Taehyung's gaze lingers on Jeongguk, his eyes narrowing slightly as he realizes the truth - Jeongguk can't cook, at least not the intricate royal dishes expected of him. Taehyung's reputation is at stake, and he can't afford to let Jeongguk's potential culinary failures tarnish his image.
With a polite excuse, Taehyung extracts himself and Jeongguk from his grandparents' presence, his grip on Jeongguk's hand firm as he leads him through the hanok's wooden corridor. The traditional Korean architecture surrounds them, the wooden floors creaking softly beneath their feet. The corridor's walls are adorned with intricate carvings, and the air is thick with the scent of old wood and tradition.
Jeongguk looks up at Taehyung with his big, doe-like eyes, his expression a mix of confusion and apprehension. Taehyung's face remains stoic, but his eyes betray a hint of concern. He knows he needs to address this situation before tomorrow's culinary ritual.
As they reach Taehyung's room, he pulls Jeongguk inside, the door sliding shut behind them with a soft thud. The silence between them is palpable, punctuated only by the sound of Jeongguk's nervous breathing.
Taehyung's voice is firm as he commands
Kim Taehyung
Watch YouTube videos and learn. I don't want you to tarnish my reputation. Got it?
Jeongguk immediately nods his head, his eyes wide with determination. He quickly grabs his phone and starts searching for cooking videos, his thumbs scrolling through the screen with a sense of urgency.
Taehyung, meanwhile, continues working on his laptop, his face focused on the screen. But every so often, his phone buzzes with an incoming message. He responds with a brief tap on the screen, his expression annoyed.
Jeongguk can't help but notice the exchange, his heart suddenly skipping a beat. Who is Taehyung messaging with such urgency? And why does he look so irritated?
A pang of jealousy shoots through Jeongguk's chest, his mind racing with possibilities. Is it Taehyung's lover, someone he's secretly communicating with? The thought sends a wave of insecurity through Jeongguk, his eyes darting back to the cooking videos as he tries to shake off the feeling.
Taehyung's phone vibrates, breaking the silence in the room. He glances at Jeongguk, who's engrossed in watching cooking videos and scribbling down recipes for tomorrow. Taehyung gets up, phone in hand, and heads to the balcony. He lights a cigar, taking a long drag as he closes the balcony door behind him, ensuring Jeongguk can't hear the conversation.
Kim Taehyung
Didn't I tell you not to call me?
Taehyung answers, his tone firm but laced with annoyance.
The voice on the other end is sultry and persuasive.
Somebody
I can't help but call you, Taehyungie.
Taehyung rubs his temple, frustration etched on his face.
Kim Taehyung
Say, what do you want?
Somebody
I want to see you
The voice responds, longing evident in the tone.
Taehyung's expression turns stern.
Kim Taehyung
No, don't forget I'm married now! Stop with this nonsense.
Somebody
I know I made a mistake, but you're my love.
Taehyung snarls, his patience wearing thin.
Meanwhile, Jeongguk watches from the room, his eyes fixed on Taehyung's silhouette through the balcony door. He can't hear the conversation, but Taehyung's body language speaks volumes. Jeongguk's heart races with a mix of emotions - curiosity, jealousy, and a hint of fear. Who is Taehyung talking to, and what's the nature of their relationship?
Jeongguk's eyes remain fixed on Taehyung's silhouette, his mind racing with thoughts. What if it's Taehyung's lover on the phone? And what if that person convinces Taehyung to leave him? Jeongguk's heart sinks at the prospect. Where will he go then?
Memories of the orphanage flood his mind, the harsh realities and struggles he faced. Living there was nothing short of pure hell. He had always dreamed of becoming an adult and escaping, but before that could happen, his life took a drastic turn.
Unconsciously, Jeongguk's hands wander to his stomach, his fingers tracing gentle patterns. It's a soothing gesture, one he's not even aware of. His eyes never leave Taehyung's figure, his thoughts consumed by the uncertainty of his future.
As Taehyung's conversation continues, Jeongguk's anxiety grows. He feels like his world is teetering on the edge, and one wrong move could send him tumbling back into the darkness he thought he'd escaped. His fingers continue to caress his stomach, a subtle attempt to comfort himself in the face of uncertainty.
Taehyung's voice is firm on the phone
Kim Taehyung
Shut your nonsense, I know exactly why you're calling. But let me tell you, I won't entertain your ways.
The caller on the other end bursts into laughter, the sound grating on Taehyung's nerves.
Somebody
How is Jeonggukie? How is his unborn child?
They ask, their tone dripping with amusement.
Taehyung's expression darkens, his frown deepening.
Kim Taehyung
That's none of your business
The person on the phone continues to taunt him, their voice dripping with familiarity.
Somebody
It's my Taehyungie's business, so it's also my business. You married Jeonggukie because of me, so how can it not be my business, baby boy?
Taehyung's grip on the phone tightens, his knuckles whitening. He can feel his anger simmering just below the surface, threatening to boil over. The caller's words are like a thinly veiled threat, and Taehyung knows he needs to end this conversation before it goes any further.
Taehyung's voice is laced with venom as he snarls
Kim Taehyung
What do you want?
The person on the other end responds, their tone dripping with desire
Somebody
I want you in my arms.
Taehyung's expression twists in disgust.
Somebody
Right now, or else Jeonggukie will know about me.
Taehyung smirks, his voice cold.
Kim Taehyung
Needy, eh? But Jeonggukie can't do anything even if he knows about you.
He continues, his words biting.
Kim Taehyung
So much love for me, where was it when I wasn't in Gorae? Cheating on me and now seeking solace in my embrace?
The person's response is immediate and menacing.
Somebody
Yes! Come tomorrow, or else I will come to your office tomorrow, baby boy.
With that, the person cuts the phone call, leaving Taehyung seething with anger and frustration. The threat hangs in the air, a constant reminder of the secrets and lies that bind him.
Taehyung enters the room, the scent of cigar smoke trailing behind him. Jeongguk looks up, curiosity etched on his face. Who was on the phone? But he pushes the thought aside, reminding himself he has no right to question Taehyung. They're married, but Taehyung hasn't consummated their union. Jeongguk's secrets weigh heavily on his mind - his pregnancy, the unknown father. What if Taehyung discovers the truth and ends their marriage?
Jeongguk's anxiety grows as Taehyung approaches him, his expression unreadable. Little does Jeongguk know, Taehyung is already aware of his pregnancy. The phone call had been a mere distraction from the truth that's been staring him in the face.
Taehyung's eyes lock onto Jeongguk's, his gaze piercing.
Kim Taehyung
Let's focus on tomorrow's cooking, shall we?
He says, his tone neutral.
Jeongguk nods, relief washing over him. But the tension between them is palpable, the unspoken secrets and lies threatening to upend their fragile marriage.
The next morning, Jeongguk wakes up early, determined to impress Taehyung and his grandparents with his cooking. He heads to the kitchen, his eyes scanning the room for inspiration. Remembering the YouTube videos he watched the night before, he begins to chop, dice, and sauté with newfound confidence.
As the aroma of sizzling meat and spices wafts through the air, Taehyung stirs on the couch, his eyes fluttering open. He's surprised to see Jeongguk busy in the kitchen, his movements swift and assured.
Taehyung's grandparents enter the kitchen, their faces lighting up at the sight of Jeongguk cooking.
Kim Joonoh
Ah, Jeonggukie, you're cooking for us?
They exclaim, their voices filled with excitement.
As they sit down to eat, the first bite leaves them speechless. The flavors dance on their tongues, a perfect harmony of sweet and savory. Taehyung's grandparents can't contain their praise, showering Jeongguk with compliments.
Lim Minja
Jeonggukie, this is incredible! You're a natural!
Kim Joonoh
Where did you learn to cook like this?
Taehyung remains silent, his eyes fixed on Jeongguk with a mixture of surprise and admiration. He hadn't expected Jeongguk to pull off such a feat, especially after their conversation the night before. But as he takes another bite, he can't deny the pride swelling in his chest. Maybe, just maybe, Jeongguk is more capable than he thought.
The silence between Taehyung and Jeongguk is palpable as they leave his grandparents' home, the tension between them almost suffocating. They arrive at Taehyung's mansion, and Jeongguk's anxiety spikes again. He can sense the presence of Taehyung's parents, his alpha and omega in-laws.
As they enter the drawing room, Taehyung's omega father looks up, his eyes rolling in exasperation as he takes in Jeongguk standing behind Taehyung.
Hyeon Woo
Your brother has sent a gift for your omega
He says, his voice dripping with disdain.
He extends a elegantly wrapped box to Taehyung, who takes it with a nod. Jeongguk's heart races as he wonders what the gift could be. Is it a peace offering or a veiled threat?
Taehyung's alpha father, seated in a plush armchair, speaks up, his voice commanding attention.
Kim Duho
Ah, yes. Your brother wants to ensure Jeonggukie is well taken care of.
Jeongguk's eyes dart to Taehyung, searching for reassurance, but Taehyung's expression remains stoic, his eyes fixed on the box in his hand.
Taehyung gestures for Jeongguk to head to their bedroom, the box clutched in his hand.
Kim Taehyung
Go ahead, I'll be right there
He says, his eyes locked on Jeongguk's.
Jeongguk nods and makes his way to the bedroom, the box feeling heavy in his hands. He sits on the bed, about to open it, when he feels warm breath on the nape of his neck. Taehyung's fingertips caress his arm, sending shivers down his spine.
Kim Taehyung
It's a hairpin
Taehyung whispers, his voice husky.
Kim Taehyung
An alpha gives it to their love interest. My brother has sent a hairpin for my omega... do you think you should wear it, Jeonggukie?
Jeongguk shakes his head vehemently, a silent
Taehyung's fingers dance on his arm.
Kim Taehyung
Good boy. My brother is a kid; he doesn't know what should be given to my omega, but it's not a hairpin. Never ever accept a hairpin from another man, got it?
Jeongguk nods, his heart racing. He closes his eyes as Taehyung sinks his teeth into the nape of his neck, the gentle bite sending waves of pleasure through him. Taehyung's tongue licks the spot, soothing the sting, and Jeongguk's body melts into his touch.
As soon as Taehyung disappears into the bathroom, Jeongguk's curiosity gets the better of him. He carefully opens the box, his heart skipping a beat as he beholds the exquisite hairpin inside. It's so beautiful that it takes his breath away.
The irony isn't lost on him - he hasn't received a gift from his own husband, yet his brother-in-law has sent him such a thoughtful present. But his delight is short-lived, as he remembers Taehyung's words:
" Never ever accept a hairpin from another man."
A shiver runs down his spine as he realizes his mistake. Doesn't his brother-in-law know that a hairpin shouldn't be given to his big brother's omega?
Just as Jeongguk is about to close the box, Taehyung's voice echoes in the room, his tone stern.
Kim Taehyung
Didn't I tell you not to touch it?
Jeongguk's heart races as he freezes, his fingers still on the box. He knows he's been caught, and Taehyung's displeasure is palpable.
Comments
❥𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲~
He is a control freak.. I really want his character development but *sigh* it will take time.. I know
2024-08-21
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