Beneath the Gilded Cage The darkness that binds

Taehyung's eyes narrow, his voice low and even.

Kim Taehyung

Why are you touching the box, Jeongguk?

Jeongguk's throat constricts as he gulps hard, his mind racing for an excuse. But the truth spills out before he can think of a lie.

Jeongguk

I...I couldn't resist my curiosity. I just wanted to see what's inside.

Taehyung's expression turns stern, his jaw clenches.

Kim Taehyung

You know I told you not to touch it.

Jeongguk's internal curse echoes in his mind: Why am I doing this? Why do I have to open the box? How do I think I can get away with it? He feels like he's digging his own grave, and now he's staring into the depths of Taehyung's displeasure.

Jeongguk

I didn't think you would see me

Jeongguk adds, his voice barely above a whisper, knowing it's a weak excuse.

Taehyung's silence is oppressive, his gaze pierces through Jeongguk like a knife. Jeongguk knows he has to face the consequences of his actions, and he steels himself for Taehyung's reaction.

Taehyung's voice is firm, his eyes blazing with a hint of warning.

Kim Taehyung

Didn't I tell you not to touch something inappropriate from another alpha? My brother Taehyung may have sent it, but that doesn't mean you have to accept everything he sends your way.

Jeongguk's eyes widen, his mind racing to process the new information.

Taehyung takes a deep breath, his expression softening slightly.

Kim Taehyung

He is Victor Taehyung Jr. We share this name with our great-grandfather, who was also called Taehyung. If you knew your history, you'd know about King Taehyung.

Jeongguk's eyes narrow, his voice even.

Jeongguk

I do know about him. He's your great-grandfather from your maternal side.

He's not going to let Taehyung think he's ignorant.

Taehyung's frown deepens, his eyes flashing with annoyance.

Jeongguk

And does he resemble you as well?

Jeongguk asks, his curiosity getting the better of him.

Taehyung's expression turns stern, his voice firm.

Kim Taehyung

Don't you know that being curious about other alphas is forbidden? You have much to learn, Jeongguk.

Taehyung snatches the box from Jeongguk's hands and shoves it into his closet.

Kim Taehyung

If you want one, Min-soo-ah will buy one for you

He says, his voice firm.

Jeongguk responds without thinking

Jeongguk

Min-soo-ah is another man too.

Taehyung's eyebrow shoots up, his eyes narrowing.

Kim Taehyung

You're talking back, I see

He says, his voice dripping with warning.

Jeongguk's heart sinks as he realizes his mistake. He internally curses himself for speaking out of turn.

Taehyung takes a step closer, his movements harsh, and grasps Jeongguk's jaw firmly. He rubs Jeongguk's lower lip with his thumb, his touch sending shivers down Jeongguk's spine.

Kim Taehyung

So, what can this mouth do besides talking back to elders? I'm very curious to know.

Jeongguk's eyes widen, his heart racing as he tries to process the sudden intensity of the situation. He knows he's in trouble, and Taehyung's words hint at a punishment that makes Jeongguk's blood run cold.

Taehyung's eyes darken as he gazes at Jeongguk's lips, his stare intense and unyielding. He can't deny it - Jeongguk is breathtakingly beautiful, surpassing many women and omega men he has encountered. Taehyung has never seen someone as captivating as Jeongguk before. He leans in, his face inches from Jeongguk's, but just as suddenly, Jeongguk's eyes fly open, and he turns pale. He rushes towards the bathroom, leaving Taehyung bewildered.

Taehyung's whisper follows Jeongguk,

Kim Taehyung

Of course, you're pregnant... and behind that innocent face, a wolf is hidden.

Taehyung's words hang in the air, laced with a mix of anger, curiosity, and a hint of warning. He realizes that Jeongguk's beauty is not just skin-deep, and that there's more to him than meets the eye.

Jeongguk's body heaves as he empties his stomach into the toilet bowl, the nausea ravaging him like a relentless storm. He wipes his face, rinsing away the bitter taste, and leans against the cold porcelain. Memories of that fateful night haunt him - fragments of a passionate encounter with a stranger, a man whose face remains shrouded in darkness. Jeongguk's mind recoils in horror as he realizes he's carrying that man's child.

He had yearned for a loving family, a devoted husband to share his life with. Instead, fate has dealt him a cruel hand: a child fathered by a mysterious stranger, and a husband who controls every aspect of his life, suffocating him with orthodoxy. Jeongguk's eyes well up with tears as he feels trapped, his dreams shattered by the harsh reality. He can't bear the thought of living a life without love, without freedom. The weight of his situation crushes him, leaving him gasping for air.

Jeongguk emerges from the bathroom, his eyes locking onto Taehyung, who is engrossed in his work. The glasses perched on his high nose bridge only add to his allure, making Jeongguk's heart skip a beat. Taehyung's beauty is mesmerizing, and Jeongguk can't help but feel like he's committing a sin by staring at him. But the truth gnaws at Jeongguk's conscience - he's not pure, not untouched. His body and soul should belong to Taehyung, but someone else has already claimed him, leaving him pregnant. The thought sends cold shivers down Jeongguk's spine.

What if Taehyung discovers his secret? Jeongguk's mind races with the terrifying possibilities. Taehyung's control and possessiveness are already suffocating; if he finds out about the pregnancy, Jeongguk fears he'll lose what little autonomy he has left. Jeongguk's eyes drop, his gaze falling to the floor as he struggles to reconcile his feelings and the secrets he keeps. He knows he can't hide the truth forever, but for now, it's his burden to bear alone.

Jeongguk's voice trembles as he gathers all his courage to ask

Jeongguk

Can I ask you something?

Taehyung's gaze remains fixed on the screen, his response curt

Kim Taehyung

Say.

Jeongguk's eyes drop, his voice barely above a whisper

Jeongguk

When will you touch me?

The question hangs in the air, laden with vulnerability.

Taehyung's expression turns unreadable, his tone laced with curiosity

Kim Taehyung

Why so eager?

Jeongguk's soft voice cracks as he reveals

Jeongguk

Grandmother was asking if I could satisfy you or not, how long our lovèmaking lasts...and finally, she gave me this.

He holds out a small pouch, his eyes downcast.

Taehyung's frown deepens

Kim Taehyung

What's that?

Jeongguk's face flushes as he explains

Jeongguk

Grandmother gave it to me to have longer lovèmaking sessions...and there's another pouch to conceive an alpha male boy.

His words trail off as Taehyung rolls his eyes

Kim Taehyung

Did you even read biology in school, Jeongguk?

Jeongguk's fingers fidget, his white nightgown clutched in his fist. His face reddens, tears welling up in his doe-like eyes, which dart anywhere but at Taehyung. In this moment, his innocence is palpable, a fragile, delicate thing that Taehyung can't help but feel drawn to. Jeongguk's vulnerability is a shield, protecting him from the world's harsh realities. Taehyung's gaze lingers, and for an instant, he believes Jeongguk incapable of any sinful act, his heart pure and untainted.

Taehyung's voice is laced with impatience

Kim Taehyung

What else did my grandmother give you?

Jeongguk's gaze remains fixed on the floor, his silence deafening.

Taehyung's tone turns stern

Kim Taehyung

I don't have all night, Jeongguk. What else did she give you?

Jeongguk's hand trembles as he reveals another pouch, his voice barely audible

Jeongguk

She gave me this...it's for you to have multiple...

Taehyung's facepalms, rubbing the temple of his face in exasperation

Kim Taehyung

Oh sweet lord! My grandmother is on another level.

His reaction is a mix of shock, embarrassment, and amusement, clearly unprepared for the forward-thinking gifts from his own grandmother. Taehyung's eyes dart to Jeongguk, his expression softening slightly as he takes in the young man's mortified state.

Taehyung's voice is laced with a hint of dismissal

Kim Taehyung

I won't touch you now. When I feel like it, I will. Plus, you're just a baby~ your body hasn't developed yet.

Jeongguk's eyes dart to his chest, then back to Taehyung, a mix of confusion and desperation on his face.

Jeongguk

But at the orphanage, they said I'm ready to bear a baby...

His words trail off as he realizes the absurdity of what he's just said. Of course, his body is ready to bear a child - he's already pregnant. Jeongguk's face flushes with embarrassment, his eyes dropping to the floor in mortification. Taehyung's expression remains unreadable, but a hint of surprise flickers in his eyes. He seems to be processing Jeongguk's words, his gaze lingering on the young man's face. The air is thick with tension, the only sound Jeongguk's ragged breathing.

Taehyung refocuses on his work, clearly uninterested in pursuing physical intimacy with Jeongguk, who is around the same age as his siblings. He believes Jeongguk is not ready, and moreover, he knows Jeongguk is pregnant, and he won't touch him during this time. Jeongguk, however, can't help but stare at Taehyung, his eyes welling up with tears. Taehyung senses his gaze and takes a deep breath before asking

Kim Taehyung

Do you even know how it's done?

Jeongguk shakes his head, his eyes downcast.

Taehyung's questions continue

Kim Taehyung

Have you ever watched pornògraphy before?

Jeongguk immediately shakes his head again, his face a picture of innocence.

Taehyung's next question makes Jeongguk's face flush an even brighter shade of red

Kim Taehyung

Have you ever touched yourself before?

Jeongguk's gaze drops to the floor, his silence and body language screaming his inexperience. The air is thick with tension, Taehyung's questions piercing the silence like a knife.

Taehyung says firmly

Kim Taehyung

Look, Jeongguk, you might be an adult, but your body is still underdeveloped. I'm simply not interested in touching you; you won't be able to match my stamina. Give your body some time. Plus, I have to teach you everything, and I'm busy nowadays, Jeongguk. I can't stay awake all night having sèx and then lose a case the next day.

He starts working again, but Jeongguk knows he must do something or risk Taehyung discovering his pregnancy. Jeongguk can't even go to a hospital to terminate the pregnancy without Taehyung's permission, as he is Jeongguk's husband.

Jeongguk trudges back to bed, his small frame struggling to climb onto the high mattress. He finally manages to hoist himself up, exhausted from the effort. Taehyung notices the struggle but remains silent, his eyes fixed on his work.

As night falls, Jeongguk sprawls across the bed, occupying the entire space and leaving no room for Taehyung. Taehyung approaches the bed and gently pulls down Jeongguk's nightdress, which has ridden up to reveal his white underwear and stomach. He covers Jeongguk with a blanket, his movements tender but detached.

Despite Jeongguk's almost-exposed state, Taehyung hasn't even felt the urge to touch him. He seems to be treating Jeongguk more like a child than a partner, his actions driven by a sense of responsibility rather than desire. Taehyung's gaze lingers on Jeongguk's peaceful face for a moment before he turns away, leaving the younger man to his slumber.

Taehyung steps out into the night air, the glow of his cigar illuminating his chiseled features as he gazes up at the starry sky. His eyes seem to hold a thousand-yard stare, his mind lost in thought. At his age, Taehyung has convinced himself he's no longer capable of loving anyone. He's had his share of experiences, of course - five partners, to be exact. But none of them had ever truly loved him. He had always been the one to love deeply, unconditionally, only to be met with heartache and disappointment. Nobody had ever treated him right. Nobody had ever loved him for who he truly was. All they wanted was his wealth, his status, or his body. The thought is a bitter pill to swallow, and Taehyung's eyes narrow as he takes a long drag on his cigar, the smoke curling into the night air like a manifestation of his jaded heart.

Taehyung's thoughts drift back to his childhood, his eyes clouding over as he remembers being sent away to England at just three years old. He was only allowed to visit home during winter vacations, with no way to communicate with his parents in between. No video calls, no mobile phones - just a deep, aching loneliness. He would fall sick, longing to see his parents, but his omega father would dismiss his feelings, saying it was for his own good. What good could come from being separated from his parents at such a tender age?

Years later, in university, Taehyung discovered his omega father was pregnant with twins. His classmates mocked him, saying he was becoming a big brother at 18, but Taehyung was genuinely happy - as long as his parents were happy. He thought maybe they were having more children because they were lonely, being away from him. But a painful realization hit Taehyung - his parents loved his siblings more than him. It was as if he was invisible, just an investment. The thought stung, and Taehyung's gaze fell, his cigar burning out in the darkness.

Taehyung's thoughts soften as he thinks of his siblings, especially Taehyung Jr., whose name and features mirror his own. Despite their similarities, their personalities couldn't be more different. Victor Taehyung Jr. may be loved by their parents, but for him, his big brother Taehyung's love matters most. Taehyung's love for his siblings is genuine, perhaps even more so than his parents'. They are his only source of solace in a family that expects so much from him. Without them, especially Victor Taehyung Jr., he might have lost his sanity.

Finishing his cigar, Taehyung enters his room to find Jeongguk wrapped in a blanket, the fabric tightly wound around his neck. Taehyung's annoyance spikes - at this rate, Jeongguk will suffocate himself. He strides over and unravels the blanket, his movements rough with frustration.

Kim Taehyung

What are you doing, Jeongguk? You'll choke yourself

Taehyung scolds, his voice firm but laced with concern. Jeongguk looks up, his eyes wide and sheepish, as Taehyung's gaze lingers on him, a mix of exasperation and protectiveness.

Jeongguk's sleepy eyes gaze up at Taehyung, his voice barely above a whisper

Jeongguk

I want vanilla ice cream with olive oil and sea salt.

Taehyung's frown deepens at the unusual request.

Kim Taehyung

Sleep now, Jeongguk

He says firmly, expecting obedience.

But Jeongguk's response is a stubborn

Jeongguk

Nu, nu, I want it.

His eyes, though heavy with sleep, sparkle with determination.

Taehyung facepalms, incredulous at his newlywed's demand. He leaves the room, returning with a bowl of vanilla ice cream, olive oil, and sea salt mixed in. He hands it to Jeongguk, his expression a mix of amusement and exasperation.

Kim Taehyung

Here, have your weird ice cream. But don't say I didn't warn you

Taehyung says, his voice laced with dry humor. Jeongguk's face lights up, and he digs in, savoring the unusual flavor combination. Taehyung shakes his head, chuckling despite himself.

Jeongguk's button nose scrunches up, and he frowns, his small hands forming fists as he jumps on the bed. Taehyung recognizes the telltale signs - the frown, the fists, the jumping. It's Jeongguk's signature way of showing he loves a dish. Taehyung can't help but chuckle at the sight, but he knows he must scold Jeongguk for his behavior.

Kim Taehyung

Jeongguk, behave! The bed is not for you to jump on like a kid. Sit like an omega

He says, voice firm

Jeongguk averts his gaze, his cheeks flushing, and finishes his ice cream with small, delicate fistfuls of his left hand. Taehyung notices how tiny Jeongguk's hands are, and his feet, too - they seem almost doll-like. Despite himself, Taehyung feels a surge of affection for his omega, who is still frowning in concentration as he savors the last bites of his ice cream.

Taehyung watches Jeongguk finish his ice cream, and can't help but think that his omega is more like a child than a partner. He doesn't feel any romantic urges towards Jeongguk, and it's not just because of their age difference - seventeen years, a gap that makes Jeongguk almost the same age as Taehyung's own siblings. Memories of his childhood flash through his mind - his omega brother, Taekyu, running nàked through the house, Taekyu sleeping with his stomach exposed even the day before his and Jeongguk's wedding. Taehyung had seen Taekyu and Victor Taehyung Jr. roughhousing, their laughter and shouts filling the air. It's hard for him to see Jeongguk as anything other than a younger sibling, not a romantic partner. Taehyung's gaze lingers on Jeongguk, who is now licking his spoon clean, his eyes sparkling with innocence. He feels a pang of affection, but it's paternal, not romantic. He wonders if he'll ever be able to see Jeongguk in a different light.

Jeongguk hands Taehyung the empty bowl, his eyes already drooping as he drifts off to sleep once more, as if nothing out of the ordinary had just occurred. Taehyung frowns, taken aback by the casual gesture. Nobody has ever treated him like this before - like a servant, holding their empty bowl.

He looks down at the bowl, then back at Jeongguk's peaceful face, his expression softening. A whispered thought escapes his lips

Kim Taehyung

I wonder, if you weren't pregnant, and you carried my child and gave birth to them, who would be the child? You or them?

Taehyung's eyes linger on Jeongguk's serene features, his mind pondering the strange dynamics of their relationship. He feels a pang of curiosity, wondering what it would be like if Jeongguk were to carry his child, to see a part of himself in another being. The thought sends a shiver down his spine, and he sets the bowl aside, his gaze never leaving Jeongguk's face.

Taehyung tries to settle in for the night, but Jeongguk has once again occupied the entire bed, sprawling across the mattress like a starfish. With a sigh, Taehyung moves his body to one side, trying to carve out some space for himself. He needs to get some rest - he has a case hearing tomorrow and can't afford to be tired. But as he drifts off to sleep, he feels Jeongguk scoot closer, his small body inching towards Taehyung's chest. Taehyung gently pushes him away, trying to maintain some distance. However, Jeongguk persists, his sleepy movements relentless.

Finally, Jeongguk wraps his legs around Taehyung, effectively trapping him. Taehyung sighs, exasperated - he's never met anyone with such atrocious sleeping posture. He tries to adjust his position, but Jeongguk's grip only tightens, holding him in place. Taehyung resigns himself to a night of tangled limbs and disrupted sleep, wondering how someone so small can take up so much space.

Taehyung wakes up before his alarm, his body aching from the tangled limbs and awkward positions of the previous night. He winces as he moves his left hand, the pain shooting through his wrist and forearm like a sharp stab. Thanks to Jeongguk's odd sleeping position, he's paying the price now. He heads to the bathroom, seeking solace in a warm bath. The soothing water envelops him, easing his muscles, but his hand still throbs. He can't help but think that Jeongguk surely needs a lecture on proper sleeping positions.

Emerging from the bathroom in a white bathrobe, Taehyung finds Jeongguk still fast asleep, sitting up but swaying gently, as if rocking to an unheard lullaby. His eyes are closed, and his mouth hangs slightly open, a picture of serene innocence. Taehyung shakes his head, a mix of amusement and exasperation on his face. How can someone so small cause so much chaos in his life? He approaches Jeongguk, his movements quiet, not wanting to disturb the peaceful scene before him.

Jeongguk rubs his eyes with his fists, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. He looks up at Taehyung, who is standing before him, his expression stern

Jeongguk

Ah...

Jeongguk opens his mouth to speak, but Taehyung cuts him off.

Kim Taehyung

When were you planning to leave the bed? It's half past 6, Jeongguk.

Taehyung's voice is firm, a hint of annoyance beneath the surface.

Jeongguk's eyes widen as he looks at the watch, and then he sprints towards the bathroom. He returns, and notices Taehyung dressed in a suit, looking every bit the part of a renowned lawyer.

Jeongguk

Will you go to court today?

Jeongguk asks his husband, his voice laced with concern.

Taehyung nods, his expression serious.

Kim Taehyung

I will appoint an omega teacher for you tomorrow. They will help you study and clear the entrance exam. Don't tarnish my reputation, Jeongguk.

Jeongguk nods his head, feeling a weight settle on his shoulders. He knows he's not a good student, and now his husband wants him to score well. He feels pressured, the expectation hanging over him like a dark cloud.

Jeongguk breathes a sigh of relief as he takes in the empty seats at the dining table. His in-laws are absent, and he can finally relax. The traditional breakfast spread before him is a bonus, and he digs in with gusto. Taehyung finishes his meal and pushes his chair back, his eyes meeting Jeongguk's.

Kim Taehyung

I'll be late today. Have your dinner, no need to wait for me.

Jeongguk nods, but his mind races with the implications. He knows that Taehyung's omega father, though not present today, will likely create trouble for him if he eats before Taehyung's return. The older man's expectations and criticisms still linger, making Jeongguk's stomach twist with anxiety. He forces a smile, trying to appear nonchalant, but his eyes betray his concern. Taehyung, oblivious to Jeongguk's worries, heads out the door, leaving Jeongguk to navigate the complex web of family dynamics alone.

Taehyung sits at his desk, cigar smoke curling around him, as he reviews files for his next case. The clock reads 8:46. His mind is focused on the legal briefs in front of him when he hears the door open. He closes his eyes, annoyed at the interruption.

He turns to face the newcomer, his expression stern.

Kim Taehyung

Why are you here?

The person smirks, their eyes gleaming with a knowing light.

Somebody

To have sèx with you, of course.

Taehyung's frown deepens.

Kim Taehyung

I'm busy, and I'm married. I can't touch you.

The person takes a step closer, their hand reaching out to grab Taehyung's tie.

Somebody

I know you're not interested in Jeonggukie

They say, their voice low and husky.

Taehyung's eyes narrow.

Kim Taehyung

It's none of your business. Just leave.

But the person doesn't back down. They walk closer, sweeping their arm across Taehyung's desk, sending papers and files crashing to the floor.

Somebody

Fùck me, Taehyungie, or else your little bride will know about us.

Taehyung's face twists in anger and disgust. He knows he's being blackmailed, and he refuses to give in.

Taehyung's voice is low and menacing, his eyes blazing with fury.

Kim Taehyung

You should have known before cheating on me that I hate cheating and what could be the consequences. We are over.

The person smiles, seemingly unfazed by Taehyung's anger. Their shining black shoes make soft sounds as they step onto the wooden table, inches from Taehyung's face. Their breath fans across Taehyung's skin, sending a shiver down his spine.

Somebody

I know you won't touch Jeonggukie

They whisper, their voice husky.

Somebody

Actually, you CAN'T TOUCH HIM. You can't touch anyone other than me.

Taehyung's eyes darken, his jaw clenched in rage.

Kim Taehyung

Don't provoke me

He growls, his voice barely above a whisper.

The person chuckles, their eyes glinting with amusement.

Somebody

What will you do, if I provoke you? No matter how pretty your bride is, only I can be touched by you.

Taehyung's face twists in a snarl, his fists clenched at his sides. His body tenses, ready to spring into action.

The person turns to leave, their voice dripping with condescension.

Somebody

You have to come to me someday, my baby boy.

With that, they exit the office, leaving Taehyung seething with anger and frustration, his mind racing with the implications of their words.

Taehyung walks through the door, the clock striking 1 am. Jeongguk sits on the couch, still awake, wearing a white short nightdress. Taehyung's eyes narrow as he recalls the words of his lover

" You can't touch Jeonggukie."

A surge of anger and possessiveness courses through Taehyung's veins. How dare someone question his manly nature? How dare someone say he can't touch his own bride? Jeongguk's body and soul belong to Taehyung, and solely him.

With a fierce determination, Taehyung loses his tie and removes his coat. His eyes burn with intensity as he commands

Kim Taehyung

Remove your clothes. I don't want a single thread on your skin.

Jeongguk gulps hard, his eyes widening in fear. Taehyung's eyes seem void, his expression unreadable.

Kim Taehyung

Remove now

Taehyung growls, his voice low and menacing.

With shaking hands, Jeongguk removes his nightdress, exposing his bare skin to Taehyung's gaze. Taehyung approaches him, his eyes still void, his intentions unclear. Jeongguk trembles, unsure of what's to come.