One Step Closer - PART 1

One Step Closer - 7 💕

"Something is burdening me these days. I'm worried about you. Our landlord met me and told me that our area was being redeveloped, and we would have to leave our homes. The little money they're offering as compensation won't be enough to get us a new place. I've been trying for weeks. I wanted you to have a roof over your head before I die. So I could sign as your guardian and secure this place for you. I'm sorry I failed you again."

"Dad," Jungkook whispered, a sob bubbling in his throat. His father has been troubled because of him. What else was bothering him?

"I've been sleepless for the past few nights because I worry about you a lot. I'm scared for your future. What would you do once I pass? How would you live without an alpha by your side? I'm sure I raised a capable son, but this world is no safe place for an omega without an alpha. I know you have borrowed money from a few people. What would you do if you can't pay them on time? They're dangerous and ruthless. I'm seeing you struggle to juggle everything in your hands. You should be focusing on your studies and enjoying your college life, but instead, you're stuck with me." His father stopped talking. "I don't want you to be helpless once I'm gone. So I have come to a decision."

Jungkook sucked in a sharp breath.

"Mr. Park owes us a favor. I never told you how your mother died because I didn't want you to grow up with bitter feelings for someone you didn't know because of her choice. She saved Mr. Park's son, and I asked him to protect mine in return."

Jungkook covered his mouth, sobbing softly.

"I didn't want to accept his money or any other favor. That'd belittle your mom's sacrifice, but I really don't have a choice. I don't want to leave you like this. When I leave this world, I wanted an assurance that my only son would have someone he could rely on. I want you to have a roof over your head and live your life peacefully. Mr. Park agreed to be your guardian. I'll close my eyes peacefully, knowing you will be taken care of. He promised me he will take care of your accommodation and education. I'm at peace knowing you won't be left homeless."

Jungkook wiped his cheeks. His dad had thought too far. Though he didn't know how to take this, he understood he was in no position to refuse Mr. Park's kindness or generosity.

On the screen, a serene expression crossed his father's face. He gazed into the screen with a smile. "I trust him to keep his word." He took a deep breath. "As for Mr. Park's proposal, I'll leave that to you."

His dad was silent for a moment. There was that look in his eyes when he wanted Jungkook to really do something but didn't want to force him into it. Jungkook knew he was gathering his thoughts to persuade him.

"As a father, it was my dream to see you marrying a capable alpha someday," he said. "Jimin seems to be a good alpha." His father grinned, sending a weak wink his way. "And a handsome one, too. But yeah, what would I know about your dream alpha?" He waved a hand. "I saw a photo of him and thought you would look good together. Mr. Park promised me that Jimin was honorable and had a good heart. I would be happy if you chose someone to share your life with. I don't know if it's my last-minute desperation or the deep understanding that your life would be stable if you married him that makes me ask you my next question."

His dad was silent once again, eyes staring into the screen.

"Let this wretched life end with me and your mom. I don't want my son to live every month, wondering how he would make ends meet. I don't want you to cut down on your meal and pretend you weren't hungry enough for another bowl of rice. I don't want you to pretend you dislike meat and snack on those chicken feet anymore. I don't want you to sleep with an umbrella because it leaks when it rains. I don't want you to shiver in the cold and share body warmth on cold winter nights."