3. A Mother's Vow
The cries of the newborn had quieted, replaced by soft, uneven breaths.
Ji-hyun cradled the tiny bundle in her arms, her body trembling from exhaustion. Sweat still clung to her brow, and every muscle ached, but she refused to let go of her child.
Jeon Ji Hyun
My Jungkook… so small… so warm…
The baby’s fingers curled instinctively around hers, impossibly tiny yet holding her tighter than anything else in the world.
A weak smile tugged at her lips. For the first time since her forced marriage, Ji-hyun felt she had something worth living for.
Across the room, Min-ho was already discussing matters with the doctor, his voice low and commanding. Words like “strength,” “training,” and “future” reached her ears, chilling her heart.
Ji-hyun pressed Jungkook closer to her chest, rocking him gently.
Jeon Ji Hyun
*murmuring, almost like a prayer*
Jeon Ji Hyun
Don’t listen to him, my baby. You don’t have to be cruel. You don’t have to hurt. You will grow with kindness… like me.
The doctor quietly approached, setting down fresh cloths and checking her condition. His expression softened when he saw her rocking the child, but there was sadness in his eyes.
Doctor
Madam, your body is weak. This birth has damaged your womb… you may never carry another child again.
Ji-hyun’s heart twisted at the words, but she only tightened her embrace on Jungkook.
Jeon Ji Hyun
“Then I will love him with everything I have. One child… is all I need.”
From the doorway, Min-ho glanced back at them. His gaze was cold, unreadable, as if he saw nothing more than a fragile woman holding a fragile baby.
But Ji-hyun didn’t care. In that moment, it was only her and Jungkook.
She pressed a kiss to his forehead, her tears falling onto his soft skin.
Jeon Ji Hyun
*Whispering a Vow*
Jeon Ji Hyun
Even if it costs me my life, I will protect you. You will not become his weapon. You will not lose your heart.
And so, in the dim light of the mansion, while shadows of power and cruelty loomed around them, a fragile mother held her newborn son — her only light, her only hope — and promised him a future different from the darkness he was born into.
Comments