Survival | JJK / KTH / PJM | BTS FANFICTION

Survival - Mask - Chapter 46

I've made a new teaser for the story! It's an overview of the 7 top ranks and their masks! Example: Taehyung and his invisible mask, Namjoon and his dragon scale mask and Jungkook and his flower mask! Get it? I wanted to add texts but it was all over the place so I went for pure visuals instead >< Please watch it! I hope you liked it! There's actually a second version but I'll post it next time!

Please make sure to reload/update the story a few times before reading to receive the latest updated ver! I'm sorry for any errors! I'll fix it ASAP! Enjoy!

-----------------------------

Flashback: Seokjin's Scooter

Seokjin's scooter suddenly raced forward while we bickered, and we entered a village's road. We rode through a local market, down an old alley, alongside a vast glimmering lake, and finally stopping at a huge building. I immediately hopped off his scooter then turned to scan the hospital-like property. Strangely, many elders were strolling, resting, and moving around in their wheelchairs.

"An elderly home? Wae? Do you have a family here?" I questioned Seokjin in surprise.

"Ani. I work here," Seokjin smiled, taking off his helmet and hook it over his scooter's mirror.

"Mwo? What do you mean-"

"Ah... were you always this chatty. Kaja," Seokjin huffed, encircling his arm around my neck and tugged me forward.

"Yah! Let me go! YAH!" I shrieked in annoyance when Seokjin tightened his arm around my neck, causing me to bend forward.

"Stop screaming! You'll disturb them! Watch your manners, will you? Don't scream like a dying pig, I don't intend on killing you," Seokjin quickly released me in disbelief, so I rubbed my neck in irritation.

"Tsk... you're so annoying," I mumbled, glancing away as we made our way into the garden.

"Handsome chef!" An elderly halmeoni in her late 70s called out, waving at us from a bench.

"Chef?" I questioned, eyeing Seokjin in confusion, 

"Halmeoni~! Anneonghaseyo! I've missed you!" Seokjin bowed, jogging up to the group of elders, leaving me baffled.

"Aigo! What happened to your face? We've missed you too," A chubby halmeoni laughed when Seokjin bent down to hug her. What the hell is going on... I've never seen Seokjin this... polite towards anyone?

"Did you eat well? I feel like you've lost a lot of weight! Aigo~" Another halmeoni with short curly hair smiled as she patted Seokjin. He leaned over to massage her shoulders with a bright smile. What on earth is going on? Am I dreaming..? I can't process the situation before me...

"You've brought someone along," A grandpa greeted me.

"Ah. Anneonghaseyo. I'm Jang Sora," I smiled, bowing down at them.

"Is she your girlfriend?" The grandpa chuckled, causing the chubby granny to grimace at me and jokingly folded her arms in displease.

"Ah-"

"She's obviously his girlfriend. Look at her, she's so pretty. I'm a bit disappointed you discarded us, but at least you have good eyes," The chubby grandma shot Seokjin a teasing glare before breaking into a bright beam.

"We're not-"

"Aniyo~ I didn't abandon you guys! I was just a bit busy," Seokjin whined, cutting me off. So I shot him a puzzled expression. Why isn't he denying their assumptions?

"I haven't been eating well for a while, but I'll make sure to eat plenty today!" The halmeoni with curly hair smiled while patting her belly.

"What's today's menu?" The grandpa asked curiously.

"It's a secret. Please look forward to it," Seokjin smiled, winking at the elders.

"You never disappoint us. Oh, by the way, did you encounter any trouble lately?" The chubby halmeoni asked in a worried tone.

"Um.. not really. Waeyo?" Seokjin smiled while scratching his head before glancing at me.

"I had an eerie dream about you. You were soaked in black blood... you looked terrified... it seems like you were in a terrific situation," Halmeoni pursed her lips to recall her dream. Seokjin and I exchanged nervous glances.

"Ah... I see," Seokjin gulped, nodding uneasily at her.

"I'm sure it's nothing. She's been having a lot of nightmares lately. Her mind's a bit coocoo, so don't let it bother you," The grandpa smiled while shaking his head.

"Ohoh! How can you say that? I'm just worried about him. Such dream is a bad omen-," The grandma argued.

"Yesterday, you said you dreamt of being on the moon. It's absurd. How can you be on the moon?-" The grandpa huffed at her.

"What does that have to do with-"

"We'll get going now. I have to prepare the ingredients, have a wonderful day," Seokjin bowed at the elders who nodded at us.

"You cook for them? The entire elderly home?" I widened my eyes at Seokjin in disbelief as we made our way into the building.

"Oh. There's a total of 65 elderly to cook for," Seokjin nodded, pushing the door open as we walked along the hallway. Seokjin greeted each and every one of the elders we passed by. Yah... this is surreal... I can't believe him.

"You can cook?" I asked as Seokjin walked into a locker room.

"Of course I can. I'm Kim Seokjin. What can't I do? There's nothing I can't do," Seokjin rolled his eyes pridefully. I stood staring at him speechlessly. What the hell... I didn't know- I'm so shocked- I can't process any of this. Without warning, Seokjin unzipped his jacket, tossed it onto the bench, and lifted up his T-shirt.

"Jamkkanman! What are you doing?!" I gasped, quickly grabbing onto his hands to stop him from pulling his shirt off.

"I'm changing, duh?" Seokjin shot me a confused look, and before I could respond, he quickly yanked off his T-shirt, causing my eyes to widen in shock. I bit down onto my lips while staring at his solid torso.

"You- why- what are-" I stuttered awkwardly. My head is completely blank.

"You like it?" Seokjin raised his eyebrows and leaned forwards, so I quickly backed away.

"M-Mwo-?" I blinked repeatedly. Seokjin smirked, stepping forward again, so I pressed my back against the opposite locker. Seokjin placed his arms on either of my shoulders... pinning me against the locker.

"I mean... no one can resist my charm," Seokjin darted me a seductive smile, tilting his head to the side until I felt my cheeks heating up. He shouldn't be this close! Not when he's half-naked.

"You're disgusting jinja!" I snapped, hastily pushing him away with all my might to fan my face. He's flustering me! How can he do this?! Is he out of his mind?

"Yah- this girl...," Seokjin glared at me with his eyes wide open.

"I'll wait outside-"

"How can you sexually harass me like that?" Seokjin scoffed, making me stop in my track.

"What are you talking about?!" I snapped, keeping my eyes trained on the door. Me... sexually harassing him? How can he accuse me of such ridiculous acts?!

"You wanted to touch me, didn't you? So you intentionally pushed me away... to touch my irresistible body? You're such a pervert," Seokjin accused me.

"YAH! I pushed your arms! I didn't touch your body! Are you crazy?!" I screamed in frustration and furiously stomped up to him.

"You're staring at me again... just tell me if you want it," Seokjin bit down on his lips and suddenly tugged down on the hem of his sweatpants. My eyes grew as wide as a chicken egg.

"YAH! HAJIMA! YOU NUT HEAD!" I screamed, screwing my eyes shut just as Seokjin pulled down his pants with an unbothered expression. At this point... my entire body was fuming in the heat... sweats were beading on my head as I tightened my fists.

"You're not what they say you are. It's just a test, so calm down," Seokjin suddenly chuckled. I felt him walking away from me to open the locker.

"What are you talking about?" I questioned while keeping my eyes closed.

"They called you by many offensive terms. It's better if you're clueless of it. You're not what they accuse you of being. Oddly, you're much more innocent than I expected," Seokjin chuckled. I slowly opened my eyes to find myself staring at his exposed broad shoulders as he dug into the locker.

"I'm always the bad person," I muttered, turning away from him and leaned against the locker with my eyes trained on the door. Whatever I do... I'm always the blame.

"You're not so bad. Though, I still have the urge to kill you," Seokjin smiled, walking past me while pulling on a T-shirt. I followed him out of the locker room, and we headed towards the empty kitchen together.

"You cook alone? With no assistants?" I questioned while staring at the big baskets of fruits, meats, seafood, and vegetables. How can he cook alone for 65 people...? And that's excluding the staff... He's not the type to serve anyone, but here he is... going through all the trouble for the elders.

"No one is allowed to cook with me. It's my way of destressing. But today, I have you. Make yourself useful. I hope you aren't a spoiled brat," Seokjin smirked, putting on his apron after handing one to me.

"You've brought me all the way here to help you cook?" I huffed at him in disbelief.

"You voluntarily got onto my car. If you don't want to cook then watch me. I'll stun you with my skills," Seokjin laughed while inspecting the ingredients.

"Why would I watch you? Just look at your fingers... how can someone with such pretty hands know how to cook?" I grimaced.

"Look at your own hands. With such slender fingers, I don't think you'll be helpful in this kitchen," Seokjin smirked, looking up from the vegetables with a teasing smile.

"I'll prove you wrong. I always cooked back in Busan," I snarled, putting on the apron and quickly drew out a knife to slice the tomatoes after washing my hands.

"Not bad," Seokjin smirked as he watched me chop the vegetables.

"Don't cry over it," I winked.

"Your chopping skills can't justify your cooking skills. And you forgot one thing," Seokjin smiled, circling the counter to my side.

"What?-" I asked, sideways watching him approach me.

"You don't cook with your hair down," Seokjin tugged my hair and tied it up, making my skin crawl. He's being weirdly... nice. It's making me uncomfortable.

"Stop talking and get to work. I have to return to the mansion-" I was cut off again when a pair of arms slithered down my arms. Caught off guard, I halted in shock. My heart began racing when I felt the presence of Seokjin's body behind me.

"The slices are too thin... make it thicker," Seokjin whispered, grabbing onto my hands to guide me. Carefully slicing the sharp blade through the tomatoes... at an equal ratio. I gulped and sideway turned to look at Seokjin when I felt his hot breath brushing against my cheek. He pressed his chest against my back with his arms around me while holding my hands as we stood in the kitchen.

"Araso. I know what I'm doing," I quickly tugged my hand out of his grip and turned to face Seokjin, who didn't back away. Instead, he stood facing me with a straight face, leaving a small gap between our lips.

"Do you?" Seokjin smiled, raising his eyebrows as he inched his face forward.

"I do. Now back off before I slit your throat," I replied as I lifted the knife, aiming it right at his neck. Seokjin calmly glanced down the sharp blade.

"You are bold. But I know you don't have the guts," Seokjin smiled, tilting his head to the side to expose his vulnerable neck.

"Do not test me," I stared dead into his eyes and tightened my grip around the knife. Seokjin smirked, placed his hands in his pocket, and stared at me in complete silence. After a while, he finally sighed and took a step away from me.

"I guess they've mistaken you. You're quite impressive," Seokjin scoffed, walking away as I cautiously watched him.

"Was it another test? It'll never work," I grimaced, turning towards the chopping board as Seokjin sliced a chunk of beef.

"Araso. I'll surrender for now. But I won't give up. Let's see if it's your real self, or is it simply just a mask to hide your shadows," Seokjin nodded smugly. We both fell silent as we prepped the ingredients. And to my surprise... Seokjin is as good as he claims to be. I thought he was a spoiled alpha who likes to be nurtured, but no... he has countless talents. I mean... who would've guessed Kim Seokjin visits an elderly home during his free time to help out and cook for old people? It's strange... especially for an alpha like him, but I realized we are all composed of yin and yang. Darkness and light coexisting together as one to mold our soul. Despite his arrogant self in the alpha society, Kim Seokjin is also a courteous man and a skilled chef at the elderly home. This must be his way of maintaining his inner peace, to cope with the cult. In the end, we're all corrupted by the society. We have no other choice but to develop a separate persona to protect us from the evil so we can survive within the darkness.

We've been cooking for hours and finally wrapped it up before sunset. We're now settling the food onto separate trays, the steaming meal ready to be served to the elders. Seokjin added herbal tea into the teapots as I cleaned up the kitchen.

*Crash*

"I'm sorry. I'll clean it up," I gasped when I accidentally knocked over a bowl, causing it to shatter onto the floor. I immediately bent down to pick up the broken shards.

"Don't, you'll hurt yourself," Seokjin muttered, tugging my hands away, carefully using a cloth to pick up the shards of glasses. I stood quietly observing him. He's lowkey very considerate... despite his ego... he's actually very thoughtful... It's weird... yet it's kind of heartwarming at the same time.

"Ohoh, pretending to be the nice guy huh...," I grinned, grabbing the broom to dust out the remaining pieces after Seokjin dumped the cloth into the bin.

"This is a violent free property. Don't expect too much after we leave," Seokjin muttered while washing his hands.

"Of course. We'll be preying on one another again, but it's an honor to witness the unseen side of you," I smiled and nodded at him. We finally served supper to the elders at around 5:00 PM because of their early meal schedule. Seokjin and I stayed at the elderly house for a while to interact with the elders as they praised his food. We left with a pack of serving for ourselves and made our way back on the scooter. I love the refreshing afternoon breeze grazing against my skin- it's very soothing. We finally arrived at the barn, Seokjin got changed again, and we left the village. Seokjin parked his car at a car rest beside the road on a hill to enjoy our meal before the sunset.

"It's actually good. I can almost taste all the flavors...," I turned to look at him in awe.

"You're impressed, but why won't you compliment me? It won't hurt to admit it," Seokjin laughed while chewing his food as we watched the yolky sun.

"Aish... araso. I'll give it to you. You are good at cooking, but you suck at driving," I nodded, averting my eyes towards the sun as well.

"Thank you- mwo? Yah... I'm good at driving! The scooter is just old!" Seokjin complained as he glared at me. I chuckled quietly and shook my head while chewing the food. As expected, he'll never acknowledge anything besides his perfections. Kim Seokjin.

Flash Back ends

Present

Namjoon and I stood face to face while staring unblinkingly at one another. The sound of Minah's gags became more alarming as we maintained our eye contact.

"Anneong," I smirked, raising my eyebrow at Namjoon.

"Put her down," Namjoon warned, firing me a threatening frown. I let out a faint scoff and dully laughed.

"Taehyung-ah, don't hurt the messenger. She was only delivering the message. She's not our concern," I requested, keeping my eyes trained on Namjoon.

"AH!" Minah gasped loudly followed by a heavy thud. Taehyung must've dumped her.

"Don't take the anger out on us. You'll end up blowing your own cover," Namjoon smirked, tilting his head to the side.

"You already blew it," I smiled as heavy footsteps marched up from behind me. Namjoon slowly averted his eyes past me as I felt Taehyung's rageful presence approaching us. Taehyung rushed past me, seized Namjoon's collar, and violently slammed him against the locker. Namjoon clenched his jaw and gripped Taehyung's arm in discomfort.

"You killed Haerim and ruined the marriage. You've given me enough reasons to kill you on the spot," Taehyung gritted, furiously tightening his grip around Namjoon.

"You're not married? Hah. So you've been fooling all of us?" Namjoon chuckled slyly eyeing Taehyung. Shit... Taehyung accidentally revealed the truth. The crowd buzzed loudly in bewilderment.

"Dakchyeo (Shut up). You might've struck us with your perfect plan, but this isn't the end. Whatever you intend on doing next, it won't change the fact that you pushed your own ally off the rooftop! And staged it as a suicide!" Taehyung seethed in anger. Referring to Haerim's death.

"Huh? Is this what you call love? You're mourning your past lover's death right in front of your current lover. And you're fine with it? Ah. The things you do to possess power," Namjoon glanced back and forth between Taehyung and I.

"You fucking jerk!" Minah screeched, angrily stomping towards Taehyung as she furiously rubbed her throat. But I quickly stepped in her path with my arms crossed.

"Why don't you save your own life and leave before it's too late? Oh right, of course. You're the faithful hound," I insulted her, causing Minah's face to turn red.

"You're a fucking bitch!" Minah roared, shoving me hard, making me stumble backward. Anger erupted within me but was quickly replaced by the empty hollowness. I licked my lips as I watched Minah stomp her way towards Taehyung.

"Minah," Namjoon warned, but she didn't seem to hear him. She raised her hands and was about to slap Taehyung when he released Namjoon. Taehyung turned towards her, but before he could react- I roughly grabbed onto her hand, causing Taehyung to turn and look at me. Even with his passive reaction, I could tell he was shocked by my sudden reaction.

"You do not touch the supreme alpha with your filthiness," I gritted, gripping onto her hand in midair as the icy cold sensation traveled throughout my body.

"Filthiness? You're the thief who stole and murdered the supreme alpha for his power. You're nothing but a pathetic bitch," Minah gritted, causing Taehyung to jerk forwards, but Namjoon caught his arm. So Taehyung hastily shoved Namjoon into the locker again, producing a violent clash against the locker.

"Beg for forgiveness," I said shortly as the darkness swelled within my head.

"M-Mwo? Beg? Tsk I'll never-"

"I said, beg," I clenched my teeth and squeezed Minah's forearm with all my might. Minah's face screwed in discomfort as she tried to yank her hand free but couldn't.

"Minah hajima," Namjoon warned again when he noticed my unusual behavior.

"Spst! Even if I die! I won't beg a fucking whore- ARGH!" Minah suddenly spat at me. That was it. I finally lost it. I violently kicked Minah's shin, making her fall to her knees before me. Minah yelped in pain and tried to leap to her feet when I roughly grabbed onto her hair and tugged her head backward.

"BEG," I demanded with my eyes wide open.

"NEVER!" Minah sneered and tried to free herself, but I ruthlessly yanked her backward, flinging her hard onto her butt.

"Stop it!" Namjoon roared, stepping forward to defend Minah, but Taehyung forced him away.

"AARGH! WHAT ARE YOU DOING YOU FUCKING CRAZY BITCH- AHHHHH! *BANG*" Minah screamed in horror when I gripped onto her head and slammed her skull hard against the locker, causing her to flop onto the floor after the collision.

"Apa? (does it hurt?)" I calmly asked while staring at Minah, who was struggling to push herself off the floor. She gripped the back of her head in pain and leaned backward to recollect her consciousness.

"You're a fucking monster! Can you all see it now!? She's a fucking monster!" Minah screamed, sitting up on the floor while glaring at me. The crowd watched me in fear.

"Sora, that's enough," Taehyung muttered while staring at Minah as she rubbed the back of her head to find blood all over her hands.

"Monster? I was never a monster. But you- you turned me into one!" I screamed, gripping onto her blood-soaked hair in resentment.

"There it is. Those vengeful eyes... araso... kill me... kill me now," Minah glared at me with her eyes bulging out in rage.

"That easy? Not yet, not so quick," I smiled, gripping onto her throat with all my might. Minah choked in shock and started to claw my arms, so I firmly gripped her hands with my free hand, leaving her gagging painfully as she sat against the locker. Kill her... a small voice spoke up in my head.

"YOU'RE KILLING HER!" Namjoon roared, thrashing around to free himself, but Taehyung effortlessly held him back as Minah hopelessly tried to gasp for air with her mouth hanging open like a dying fish. Kill her. Now.

"Is this what you want? Hmm? You wanted this, didn't you?!" I roared, turning to glower at the crowd of people around us and squeezed Minah's throat with all my might, causing her to thrash her legs against the floor in desperation. The crowd's face turned pale as they stared at me with their horrified eyes.

"FINE. I AM THE MONSTER. THE MONSTER YOU TURNED ME INTO. THE EVIL BITCH YOU ACCUSE ME OF BEING. YOU CRAVED TO BELIEVE IN IT, SO I'LL TURN INTO ONE. I'LL FUCKING SHOW IT TO ALL OF YOU!" I bellowed, hastily shoving Minah to the side. She collapsed to the floor in difficulty with her hands around her throat. I slowly got onto my feet, startling the terrified crowd, so they shrunk away in fright.

"This is what you've been dying to see, isn't it? Araso, I'll be the bad guy. I'll be what you assume me of being. Let's see who'll survive it. I'll be the evil you accuse me of being. On a few conditions, do not complain. Don't scream when I hunt you. Don't whimper when I spill your blood. And don't... ever... fucking regret turning me this way. It was all your choice- every single one of you will witness my wrath," I angrily snarled at the crowd until blood drained from their faces. They took advantage of my patience... whatever they called me... I always choose to walk away. I tried so hard to be a good person. Suppressing my pain to seek their validations. But not anymore. I've fucking had enough of their superficial assumptions. They've released my inner darkness, the one I've been taming, so they'll face the consequences. I loomed monstrously over Minah as drools streamed along her lips. She looked up at me in fright and gripped onto her wounded neck.

"This is only the beginning. What you felt was only a pinch of my pain. There's a price to pay for your sins, so be prepared," I gravely stared at her before averting my eyes to the crowd. The entire hallway was hushed... every one of them looked terrified... and I could sense the fear spreading within the huddle of lower ranks. I shot Namjoon a sharp glare before stomping off without another word. Who am I? The supreme alpha. I'm no longer Jang Sora. I've lost myself to them. I am now a coldblooded supreme alpha... the thief... and murderer. That's who I am. I tried to satisfy their expectations and my desire to be a good person but still failed to proclaim my happiness. So now... I'll unleash the raging darkness to abuse the society. It's all their fault! I've lost everything because of them! I will become their fear and I will use it to my advantage. I'm tired of seeking to protect my dignity and innocence. No matter how hard I try to remove the stains, they'll still smudge me with mud and blood and accuse me of being the villain. If they're so desperate, then I'll smear myself with the filth and present them the evil that I've been fighting to overcome.

"Sora-" Taehyung called, chasing after me as I hurried down the stairs and quickly made my way out of the building, feeling the uneasy stir circulating throughout my veins.

"Take me home," I ordered, striding into the parking lot.

"What are you doing?" Taehyung asked, roughly grabbing onto my arms.

"War. I'm going to fight," I bitterly stared at him. Taehyung stood unsurely scanning my expression.

"How?" He gulped and softened his eyes.

"Blood for blood," I replied, tugging my hands out of his grip, then got into the passenger seat. Taehyung got in after me, and we shot out of the university. I've been running away from reality, but I won't run from it anymore. It's no longer avoidable, so I'll challenge it. The dirty truth swept the entire society. As soon as we arrived at the mansion, the security heightened. Taehyung and I entered the front door to find Mrs. Jeon standing on the staircase with an uptight look on her face.

"Come upstairs," She ordered, coldly strolling up the stairs, so we both followed her. Imo was waiting outside the conference room with an anxious look. I ignored her and walked into the meeting room to find a long wooden table in the center, surrounded by huge armchairs. The elders sat silently in their seats as we entered. We've never used this room before. The situation must be critical for the elders to gather inside this room. Taehyung sat down by his father beside the Parks while Mr. Jeon sat on the other side with his wife and my mother. And at the right end of the table sat my father with his hands clasped together. I glanced at the seat next to Taehyung to the empty seat beside Jimin. Instead of sitting along the side of the table... I walked up to the left end and sat opposite of my father, with the view of everyone on both my sides. This is my seat. I am the supreme alpha, and I will spoil my authority. Eomma didn't look pleased with my seating choice but said nothing. I leaned back against the armchair and softly tapped onto the table... staring straight at my father on the opposite end.

"Fine, I'll start," Appa exhaled in defeat after I refused to utter a single word. My inside is weirdly calm... yet... I could feel the darkness creeping everywhere.

"The Second Kim has been spreading dangerous rumors about our household and Park Jihyun's tragic death. This will cause suspicion amongst the other ranks, which will put us in an undesirable position," Appa continued, staring straight at me from across the table.

"It's just a mere rumor to ruin our reputation- we don't have to acknowledge it. It'll pass," Eomma tapped her finger softly against the table.

"I agree. We can't descend into the trap. Hence, we need to be cautious with our response," Appa nodded. Funny how they're the only two people speaking... while the rest of the elders remain oddly muted. Why? Because they know the truth, and my parents are trying to cover it up like they always do.

"Why aren't you responding? Are you paralyzed?" Eomma shot me a disapproving look. Everyone turned to look at me, so I remained composed in my seat.

"I guess I am paralyzed in a way. It's the downside effects of the society, huh?" I smiled while staring at my parents. They've paralyzed me with their poison.

"This isn't the time to joke around. We've been too lenient with your foolishness. Don't take us lightly," Appa warned me.

"I'm well aware of it. Though, I don't believe being dead inside is something to joke about," I smirked sarcastically at my parents.

"Enough of your-"

"Araso. Why are you suddenly getting worked up? Be glad I'm not throwing a fit. I shouldn't be fighting your stupid war in the first place, but here I am. Shielding you from your treason," I chuckled, leaning back against the armchair.

"Treason? How can you-"

"Come on. How long are you going to play dumb? Everyone in this room knows you murdered Park Jihyun for his power. Ah, let me correct myself, everyone in society knows the truth now. Kim Namjoon did not lie. He's simply spreading the truth. I stole Jihyun's power, and that's a fact. So are you really going to be a clown and attempt to deny it? At this point, you should just prepare yourself for the expected consequences," I dully interrupted my mother, causing all the elder's faces to turn colorless. Every one of them is guilty of the supreme alpha's death.

"Jang Sora-shi. Are you suggesting we admit to our fault? It will cause an uproar amongst the society, and they will all rip us into pieces," Eomma snarled as she stared at me with her wicked almond eyes.

"If you're so afraid of dying, why did you kill Jihyun in the first place? You created your own weakness," I shrugged at my mother.

"Did you think we had a choice-"

"That's enough. I don't think it's the right time for us to fight right now. I understand the bad blood between mother and daughter, but we shouldn't continue fighting amongst ourselves. Right now, there's a bigger threat. We all have one goal in common, and that is to Survive. And we can't survive individually, so like it or not, we have to form a pack. Please refrain from allowing your personal feelings to hinder our purpose," Taehyung finally spoke up. Eomma and I both fell silent as we glared at each other.

"Taehyung's right. Kim Namjoon's aim is to gather followers. He alone can't disable us, but with the entire society, we don't stand a chance," Mr. Jeon nodded, darting me an apologetic look.

"No. Not just external issues. Namjoon has been breaking us from the inside as well," Jimin muttered quietly, causing Taehyung and I to turn and look at him in surprise. I didn't expect him to care... but he's still an alpha. Our survival is his survival.

"Internal issues. It's exactly what he wants. He caused a huge misunderstanding between Sora, Jimin, and I. And it's enough to create tension between our own households. His initial plan was to break us apart. But we exposed him, so he's now aiming for bigger destruction," Taehyung nodded at Jimin. Taehyung has been upset with Jimin for a while, yet he's agreeing with Jimin now. It wasn't entirely Jimin's fault nor anyone's fault. It's all of us, we all contributed to the mess, so there's no point in blaming one another. Not at the moment.

"The question is, how did they find out the truth? We've kept it confidential ever since the incident took place," Mrs. Kim muttered, thinking hard to herself. Taehyung gulped, uneasily exchanging glances with Jimin.

"It's unknown. We shouldn't waste our time worrying about it. What's important is- Kim Namjoon knows the truth. So we have to prioritize the reality we're facing right now. Sooner or later, we'll find an answer," Mr. Kim shook his head at his wife.

"The only solution is the marriage. If only you weren't so stubborn about it and signed the license, we wouldn't be dealing with this headache," Eomma shot me a sharp glare.

"Are you blaming it on me? This is all your problem. You're simply using me to save yourself," I fired back at her. How can she be so selfish? She's forcing me to obtain her power.

"I know this might be an arranged marriage, and I might be wronged for separating you from Jimin-shi. But let me ask you one question. After all the things Taehyung did for you, after all the torment he went through to protect you and after all the affection he showed you, were you ever grateful for it? No- don't think of yourself. If you were in his shoes, how would you feel? I know you're upset at me but do you have any idea how much pain you're putting Taehyung-shi through? Sure, you might be taking your revenge on me and your father, but have you ever paid attention to Taehyung?" Eomma questioned as she stared at me in disappointment. I felt as if I was hit with a brick in the head. My chest stirred uncomfortably, so I turned to look at Taehyung, who was blankly staring at the table.

"O-Of course I'm aware of it. Do you think it's easy for me? You leave me no choice. I understood your desperation, so I tried to make it work between us. But I found out you've erased a part of my memories. I've found out the twisted past between all of us. How am I supposed to react? Of course, I was devastated. I lived my entire life in a lie," I defended myself and crossed my arms in frustration.

"We might be responsible for Jungkook's memory loss, but we weren't responsible for yours. Your memory loss was an accident, and we've decided to keep it that way for the sake of our lives. Not just yours but every one of us," Eomma shook her head at me.

"When did you care about anyone but yourself? You drove Jungkook's mother towards her own misery! You threatened to sacrifice the Kims to save yourself, and you used Taehyung to kill his own-"

"What?" Mr. Jeon blurted, sharply staring at me. He glanced back and forth between my mother, causing her face to turn pale. Mr. Jeon doesn't know...? He never knew the reason behind his wife's death? He didn't know my mother wanted to eliminate the Kims? My mother is hiding something from all of us... including Mr. Jeon. I pursed my lips and glanced at their clueless-looking eyes.

"My mother-"

"That's enough. The past is the past. Let's not revive it. We're living in the present, so we have to deal with our future, not our past. At least, not in this situation," Taehyung cuts me off with a warning stare. He doesn't want me to tell Mr. Jeon? Right... if I expose everything... they'll find out the real cause behind his uncle's death... which will shock Mrs. Jeon and the Kims. My mother pulled her lips into a thin line and shot me a nervous glance.

"Fine. I guess I can never guarantee my memory is a hundred percent accurate after all," I reassured Mr. Jeon, who sat back doubtfully. Taehyung exhaled in relief, then turned to look at my mother. It's the two of them... sharing the hidden secret. My mother and my fiancé. Wait a minute... ah... Bingo. God's actually favoring me for once...? Hah. My mother is hiding the secrets from Mr. Jeon and the Kims, and if I expose her... the truth will likely devastate the Kims because my mother used their son to murder their brother-in-law. Mrs. Jeon will be outraged to discover her husband's killer, Taehyung, was always by her side... and Mr. Jeon will never look at my mother the same way if he knew she's the cause of his first wife's death. The truth will generate conflicts within our household. The Kim and Jeon combined possess 50% of my assets... so my mother can't risk losing it... which means I can threaten her with my knowledge. And why did Taehyung agree to conceal the truth...? Because he can't bear the truth. He's trying to bury it, and the only way to do so is to keep it hidden from his parents and Jungkook's stepmother.

"Good. Now let's figure out a resolution to avoid this trouble," Taehyung nodded, tensing up his body.

"It can easily be resolved if Sora agrees to sign the document. You promised us. You said you'll sign it after Taehyung, and we now have his signature. You said you'll agree after ensuring Min Yoongi's safety. Based on our sources, Min Yoongi is alive and is recovering under his parent's protection. And lastly, you wanted us to guarantee Jungkook's immunity. So we did. We've met all of your demands," Mr. Kim sighed, sadly eyeing me. The Park slowly took out the marriage license and placed it on the table. Jimin gulped... sliding it towards me with a pen. I sat staring at it unblinkingly. I've endlessly run on the treadmill... running in the same position from the same reality. Everything is settled... but why... am I still hesitating? What am I searching for?

"There's nothing left for you to do," Appa sighed. My mind is racing like crazy... desperately rummaging for an excuse, but I couldn't think of any. Wae... why am I looking for an excuse...? I slowly averted my eyes to Taehyung, who was anxiously staring at me as Jimin let out a shaky breath.

"Let's end this torment. Sora... you have the power to put an end to all of our miseries," Mrs. Kim whispered, nervously staring at me. Put an end to all this misery? How are they so sure? Sure, it might offer us temporary peace... but never forever. Not while the heir is alive. The Black Phoenix will never rest.

"Why are you hesitating again? Is it because you don't love me?" Taehyung questioned in a pitiful tone as he looked at me directly in the eyes. I felt a sharp stab but didn't know why. What is it that I'm feeling? Why am I confused? Maybe it's because our love was never stable?

"Of course I do," I sighed, sadly looking up at Taehyung. I've learned to love Taehyung, and that's undeniable. My love for him didn't come naturally- it was built by my own effort and empathy. It's handcrafted by my own hands.

"Then let's end this," Taehyung shot me a pleading glance. Those eyes... those darn eyes... it never stays. Behind those affectionate-looking eyes lurks the darkest evil-infested soul. I slowly lifted up my finger and gripped on the pen, causing the entire room to fall silent. My eyes drifted to Taehyung's signature and towards the blank space next to it. I could feel the tension rising within the room as I hovered the pen over the paper. Everyone was on their edges as they anxiously watched me.

"I've already made already made up my mind, but I won't reveal it yet-" I sighed, placing the pen down without my signature on the document.

"Wae- Sora-" Taehyung stuttered, widening his eyes in shock.

"Wah. How long are you going to-"

"I told you. I've already made up my mind," I sighed, looking up at my mother.

"If you've made up your mind, then sign it-"

"Not until Jungkook returns. I need to guarantee his safety first," I shook my head and pushed the files away from me. It doesn't feel right, so I'll wait for Jungkook.

"I told you he's safe! Just get everything over with!" Appa snapped angrily.

"Don't worry. I'll cooperate with you. I was never obedient ever since I found out the truth. I know I shouldn't be delaying the marriage any further, but I'll promise you one thing. I will play my role as the supreme alpha and help you deal with this trouble. I will fulfill my duty and do what must be done to keep the foes away while Jungkook recovers. Once he returns, I will deliver the answer, and I will not postpone it any further. So please, do not push me any further. Let's pray for his quick recovery," I sighed at my parents.

"You're withholding our marriage because of Jungkook?" Taehyung questioned, staring at me with a disappointed yet hurtful look.

"I'm sorry. But Jungkook was hurt because of you. I think it's only appropriate to respect his well-being. This is the consequence you have to face for your thoughtless actions," I shook my head at Taehyung, got onto my feet, and left the room without another word.

Although I expected Taehyung to confront me after my decision, he didn't, which was a huge relief because I didn't want to fight with him. I'm buying myself and Jungkook a little more time. There are things I need to clarify before proceeding with the elder's plan. Despite settling the conflict within my household, I'm still neck to neck with Namjoon. He provoked me. He brought out my inner darkness, and I will never surrender until he falls.

"To disarm Kim Namjoon, I have to start from the root," I whispered, flipping through the stack of files on Namjoon's records, background, connections, and identity. He managed to unearth my secret, so I'll do the same.

"I'll get our people to reinvestigate Gae Haerim's death," Do-hwan replied, standing beside my desk. My mother made Do-hwan follow me around wherever I went to report on my actions. I didn't mind because Do-hwan agreed to keep things neutral between us. Plus, I'm not doing anything suspicious. I'm doing my parents a favor by living up to the title of my status.

"Don't bother. Namjoon must've gotten rid of the evidence- I'll figure out another way. Instead, bring me Kang Minah's files. I'm going to have some fun with her to get Namjoon on his nerves," I smirked while reading through Namjoon's trading reports. He's quite skilled in handling the economic division of Seokjin's assets. Their revenue never dipped once. Instead, it tripled annually, which is very impressive.

"I've already brought all the ally's documents, it's on the second stack," Do-hwan replied, blankly nodding at me.

"Ohoh... you're sharper than I thought you were," I grinned. Do-hwan smiled unconsciously, but he quickly fixed his expression when he noticed me staring at him.

"I work for the alphas, so I must be quick-witted if I wish to live," Do-hwan replied pridefully as I moved on to the debt lists.

"Mohya? Plenty of his allies are indebted to my household...," I whispered while staring at the chart in shock.

"The taxation fee used to be stricter back during the old days, but your parents lowered the restriction, and the lower ranks took advantage of it. Some is refusing to pay the dividend fee as well," Do-hwan answered.

"You aren't just a bodyguard considering your broad range of knowledge on the alpha society. Which means you've been working for my mother for quite some time," I nodded at him.

"I worked as an undercover for years. Until my wife gave birth...," Do-hwan suddenly stiffened. I pause to look up at him. Right... his wife passed away after giving birth to his son.

"I'm sorry. But you did the right thing to protect Woobin. Though I hope he reunites with you one day, he's a really adorable kid. I can adopt him for you if you-"

"No! Please don't drag him into this society! It was hard enough for me to abandon him at the orphanage. I should've never gotten myself involved with the alpha... at least he'd have a father, but I couldn't be his father when I'm trapped in this cult," Do-hwan sighed in a broken tone. I sat pitifully staring at him.

"Send the orphanage some supplies. You can pick whatever you want to gift them and deliver it to the orphanage yourself. I'll put you in charge... you can see him that way," I nodded.

"I refuse. I don't think I'll be able to return if I see him," Do-hwan shook his head.

"Araso. Suit yourself, but Woobinie likes sweet so stock the orphanage with plenty of snacks," I nodded at Do-hwan.

"Thank you for your generosity," Do-hwan slightly bowed at me.

"Oh. Don't do that. It's uncomfortable. Anyways, I noticed the lower ranks owe us a lot of fees... varying between five to ten years? That's too long. Narrow down the list to pin down all of Namjoon's allies and press them into paying the fee. Most of the households won't be able to repay it, so eliminate all the weak households. I will take away his limbs first, so he can't freely move anymore," I ordered, darkly placing the files down.

"Eliminate...? As in...?" Do-hwan asked unsurely.

"If they resist, kill them," I said shortly.

"Are you sure?" Do-hwan questioned. He can't seem to believe me.

"Wae? Why are you questioning my decision?" I asked, tilting my head to the side.

"I hope you're not doing something you're regretful of. This will definitely please your parents, but you won't feel great about it-"

"Do-hwan-shi. There isn't a single moment when I feel happy. Kim Namjoon took away many precious people and things from me. He murdered them with no mercy, so I'll do the same. Except I'm smarter, I won't let his precious person die... not so easily. I'll torture them... over and over again. Make them feel the endless pain I've been going through," I smiled at the thoughts of the happiness being sucked away from Namjoon's face. He killed Yangcha. And I'll never forgive him for it. Do-hwan stood staring at me with an unsettled look... until I heard a faint knock on my door, and Chul Sungho came striding in. I straightened myself and watched Sungho make his way towards my desk.

"Can I have a word?" Sungho asked, blankly staring at me before averting his eyes to Do-hwan.

"Of course," I nodded, waving at Do-hwan, so he left the two of us alone. Sungho folded his arms, then stared at me without uttering a single word after he took his seat.

"I didn't have a choice," I sighed. I know he's upset I lied to him.

"As much as I'm disappointed in you for not trusting me, I also understand why you chose to keep it hidden. I'm merely a new alpha, an ally you can't fully trust. If I was in your shoes, I would've lied about the heir too," Sungho sighed, relaxing his body, causing me to feel a bit at ease. He's not dramatic and is very logical. I like him.

"I'm glad you understood, now you know. Everyone knows. I don't blame you if you want to switch sides at this point," I shrugged, glancing back down at the documents.

"Many of the lower ranks are wavering. They want to leave your household. I did some investigation on my own. Although they say you don't deserve the throne, I'm sure you must've had your reasons. Nothing comes without a price. Therefore, I will persuade my parents to stand by your side," Sungho sighed while staring sharply at me. I uneasily looked up at him...

"What do you want? In return, I know you want something," I narrowed my eyes.

"Nothing much. I alone can't guarantee my sister's safety. I want you to protect her. I'll feel a little bit at ease with your assurance. So this is all I'm asking for to make up for your dishonesty," Sungho simply smiled at me.

"Yah. I didn't lie to you-"

"In a way you did, you refused to answer my question. My sister won't be a hassle, she'll live a quiet life, I can guarantee that," Sungho cuts me off, so I bit on my lips.

"Araso. I'll talk to my parents," I nodded at him.

"Thank you. I won't bother you any longer, have a great day," Sungho smiled, getting onto his feet, and was about to leave when I stopped him.

"Wait," I said nervously.

"Yeah?" Sungho asked, turning to look at me.

"Your report states you can ride a bike?" I questioned, looking down at my file.

"You've been through my biography? That's a bit... scary, but yes," Sungho nodded, placing his hands into his pockets. I thought hard to myself and repeatedly tapped my finger on the file.

"I need to ask you for a favor," I said locking my eyes with Sungho.

"Ah. It's my pleasure," Sungho's lips curve up into a slight smile as I unblinkingly stare at him. After our brief conversation, Sungho finally left, and Do-hwan entered my room again.

"What is he doing here? You should be cautious around him," Do-hwan asked, carefully closing the door as I happily hummed to myself.

"I know," I grinned, tapping my feet while humming.

"You're in a good mood...?" Do-hwan raised his eyebrow as I smiled at him.

"Ah~ I'll take a break. I need you to research something for me," I yawned while stretching out my arms.

"I can't guarantee it," Do-hwan shot me an uneasy look.

"Nothing much. Can you retrieve Seokjin's schedule for the entire week?" I questioned, turning to look at him.

"Wae?- Do you-? Don't tell me-"

"Ani. It's not like that. I won't eliminate him, not yet," I shook my head at Do-hwan's doubtful expression. Taehyung and I weren't allowed to exit the mansion for the next few days, so I couldn't visit Jungkook or attend the university. Hoseok made sure to update me on Jungkook's wellbeing through Minho's medical team. Despite being disappointed in me for postponing the marriage once again, my parents didn't dare to complain anymore as I did my job. In just three days, over ten lower-rank households crumbled after my first attack. All of them were connected to Namjoon. Enough of being trampled on by the alphas, it's now my turn to play.

"Are you sure about it? The Kwon household is very skilled with the industrial aspects of the society. They might be allied with Kim Namjoon, but if we recruit them, they'll be very useful," Do-hwan questioned as I flipped through the files in the living room.

"Haven't you seen the news? They're demanding for my appearance. Everyone is sure I killed Park Jihyun for his power at this point. No household will side with us, so eliminate the Kwon. If I can't have them, then Namjoon won't get them either," I calmly tapped my feet on the floor.

"The heir is merely a teen," Do-hwan continued.

"So was Jae Yangcha. He died brutally under Namjoon's hands," I clicked my tongue dismissively.

"I know you're fulfilling your duty, but please don't lose your integrity," Do-hwan sighed in defeat.

"My integrity? My sympathy will only give the alphas unnecessary hope to destroy our household," I laughed, glancing at Do-hwan.

"I reject this plan," Dohwan stated firmly.

"Mwo? Who are you?- Jinja... araso. You do have a soft spot for kids. I'll let the kid live," I scoffed at Do-hwan in disbelief.

"I'll get it done as quickly as possible," Do-hwan nodded when Taehyung came striding into the mansion. We didn't talk much ever since the meeting because I knew he isn't happy with my decision.

"Let's go out. I'm suffocating," Taehyung sighed while cleaning his dirty hands with a piece of cloth before tossing it into the maid's cart. He has been spending his time in the garage to avoid me.

"Araso," I nodded, so Taehyung walked off to get changed. I figured he wanted to speak privately without being watched by the elders.

"You're not allowed-"

"The elders can't lock us up forever. The society wants to see us and the longer we hide, the more impatient they'll become," I shook my head at Do-hwan and dropped the files onto the table. Do-hwan let out a heavy sigh and left the living room to report to the elders.

"Kaja," Taehyung muttered, pushing back his hair to reveal his forehead, and strode out of the mansion in a black trouser and black button-up shirt. I got onto the jeep as he started the car engine and left the property with him. Neither of us said a single word as we drove down the streets. Taehyung stopped by a flower shop to get a bouquet of white flowers and placed it in the back seat. We arrived at a sunny green field filled with tombstones. I slowly got off and scanned the hill in silence. He's here to see Haerim. That's why's he's dressed up so formally. We walked through the line of tombs in silence until we reached a brand new headstone.

Gae Haerim. 08 April 1997 - 08 July 2020. I stood quietly staring at her black and white picture on the marble. Taehyung carefully placed the flower on the tombstone and stood wordlessly staring at it. Until the very end, none of us noticed her despair. She was only trying to live because of her weak household. The powerful entities sacrificed her life to break me. She wasn't the foolish wolf who leaped for the eagle over the cliff. She was pushed to her own demise by no other than the poisonous snake and the firebreathing dragon.

"What happened to her parents?" I asked softly.

"Exiled. Under the Kim's surveillance," Taehyung muttered quietly.

"Her loyalty took away her precious life," I sighed, turning to look at Taehyung.

"Loyalty?" Taehyung questioned.

"She knew Kim Namjoon was going to steal Seokjin's assets. She was threatened to keep her mouth sealed, so she came for your help. But we both failed to save her. She must've tried to expose Namjoon's plan, so he... eliminated her," I shrugged, averting my eyes back to the grave. One by one of the alphas are fading away... everyone's in danger at this point. Who's next? It's unknown. It can be any of us.

"The dilemma drove her towards a dead end. A sacrifice to a greater disaster," Taehyung muttered, emptily staring at Haerim's picture, so I turned to look at him in confusion. What is he talking about?

Flashback

Third Person's POV: Before Haerim's Death.

Kim Taehyung steadily made his way down the empty hallway after receiving a text from his past lover. He was requested to meet up with her while everyone else was in class. Taehyung circled the corner, coming face to face with Gae Haerim, his ex-lover. Haerim immediately pushed herself off the wall and turned to face Taehyung, who was dimly staring at her.

"You're here," Haerim whispered anxiously.

"What do you need? We've gone over this already," Taehyung sighed while folding his arms.

"You can't proceed with the engagement," Haerim stated, sternly staring at him.

"It's not for you to decide," Taehyung shook his head.

"Then I have no choice but to expose everything," Haerim threatened as she teared up before Taehyung.

"Expose everything...? What are you-" Taehyung stopped mid-sentence when he realized what she was referring to. His body turned icy cold at her words.

"I will tell everyone everything. How you murdered your own uncle to save yourself. Including Park Jihyun's cause of death," Haerim seethed at Taehyung.

"You wouldn't dare. No one will believe you. It's the forbidden truth because who will believe your absurd words? No one. Don't even try to threaten me with it," Taehyung chuckled, trying to keep his cool. The supreme alpha was trying his best to hide his anxiety. He can't let her take advantage of it.

"I'm giving you a chance, break the engagement. I know you only want her for her power- so don't do it," Haerim gulped, stiffly staring at him.

"And what if I don't? I love her, so I'm not going to let go of her. Why? Because she chose to stay by my side instead of backing away like a coward," Taehyung sternly tilted his head with an unbothered look.

"Then I'll show them the evidence," Haerim blinked nervously at Taehyung.

"You don't have-" Taehyung was cut short when Haerim lifted up her phone to reveal the recording on her phone. Taehyung turned stiff as he stared at her.

"I'm sorry. It's simple, break the engagement and let me be your ally. I'll ditch the Kims and return to you," Haerim whispered, slowly putting the phone away as Taehyung stared at it in silence.

"It's them, isn't it? The two Kims. You picked them over me, and now you're forcing me to welcome you into my arms again? I'm in love with Sora and I will not abandon her for your unworthy love," Taehyung clenched his fist.

"You don't understand. It's complicated. My life is in danger. I won't turn this into them if you can guarantee my safety! There's a secret you should know too. The engagement isn't necessary. Something will happen, and you won't be threatened anymore. Please... Taehyung jebal... I'm also saving you," Haerim whispered, desperately holding onto Taehyung's hand as he stood fixedly staring at her. Haerim tip-toed and leaned forward, pressing her lips against Taehyung's, who stood frozen in his place. Unable to move... Taehyung opened his eyes to find a shadow of a person around the corner of the hallway (Minah, she saw them kissing). Haerim slowly pulled away from him.

"Give me your phone," Taehyung demanded, holding out his hand.

"I'll give you some time to consider it. I don't have a choice," Haerim gulped and dashed off in a hurry before Taehyung could react. Haerim ran down the stairs in a hurry and circled the end of the hallway when she suddenly stumbled back in panic, her face turning pale when she found someone leaning against the wall.

"Is there something I'm not aware of?" Minah smirked while folding her arms suspiciously.

"M-Mwo? I don't know what you're-"

"Kissing Kim Taehyung? It's not a part of our plan," Minah hastily grabbed onto Haerim's arm.

"I-I'm only trying to disable the engagement!" Haerim stuttered nervously.

"You? Disable the engagement? By playing around with Kim Taehyung's feelings? Who do you think you are? Do you think you can compete with Jang Sora? You're nothing compared to her. Ah... that's right, you're trying to earn Namjoon's favor, huh? Don't compete with me. I'll be the one to destroy the supreme alphas. Not a weakling like you," Minah sneered at Haerim.

"I never wanted to compete with you. You've been living in an illusion. You say I'm weak, but I have the most powerful weapon to disable the top ranks. If you want to play so badly, then I'll play with you," Haerim snarled at Minah.

"Mwo? What are you talking about?" Minah snapped as she glared at Haerim in disbelief.

"I've got the bomb to destroy the supreme alphas in a split second, not you," Haerim smiled, waving her phone at Minah before walking off. Minah let out a frustrated scream and glared at Haerim's back in anger.

A few hours before Haerim's death.

"- Taehyung please! Listen to me! I need your help- I promise I'm not going to lie to you!" Haerim desperately grabbed onto Taehyung's arm after he refused to see her.

"-Leave me alone!-" Taehyung snapped, pretending to dismiss her. He's purposely ignoring her to feast on her desperation.

"-You don't understand! I need you-"

"-But I don't need you-" Taehyung argued, continuously pushing her aside.

"- I was there for you when you broke down over that stupid girl-"

"-shut up, I swear if you speak a word of it-"

"Don't you remember the nightmare?! Constantly apologizing to her?! The pain and guilt you felt, I'm going through the same- I'm in danger-" Haerim begged, searching Taehyung's dull eyes, horror-filled her when she realized he wasn't falling for her trap.

"- what do you want- Sora can't know about this-"

"You've got a thick skin Haerim-shi," Sora appeared around the corner of the hallway. Taehyung turned to look at her in shock. Sora showed up at the wrong time. Taehyung was so so close to retrieving the evidence from Haerim. Now he lost the chance.

The Untold Incident Before Haerim's Death. Right before her death.

"Give it to me!" Taehyung whispered, storming towards Haerim, so she backed away in fright.

"I will give it to you if you agree to my conditions!" Haerim snapped quietly trying to keep her voice down in the hallway.

"I can't- Haerim!" Taehyung called out in frustration when she suddenly ran off. Haerim quickly entered the elevator and slammed on the button desperately. Taehyung rushed up to the elevator in an attempt to hold it open, but he was too late.

"Fuck," Taehyung gritted, glaring at the level number as he watched her move upward. Taehyung ran up the stairs in a hurry until he reached the teacher's lounge. Haerim got out and was about to make her way towards the exit, only to find Taehyung marching up towards her. Haerim turned around, dashed towards the stairs, and ran up onto the rooftop opening.

"Stop running, there's nowhere to go," Taehyung gritted, slamming the rooftop doors closed.

"Why can't you do it!? Wae?! I told you I'll return the favor by revealing the Kim's secret!" Haerim screamed, backing away from Taehyung as he stood with his hands pressed on either side of his hips.

"I love her! I can't pick any of your options because I'll lose her either way. I break the engagement, and I'll lose her. If I don't break the engagement, you will expose the truth that will also take her away from me. She can't find out about the past! She'll leave me the moment she realizes I tried to kill her! And I won't let it happen! Not Jang Sora. I love her too much," Taehyung howled as he approached Haerim, causing her to back away against the railing when her phone suddenly rang, causing her face to turn pale. Taehyung halted abruptly and stared at her.

"Y-Yeoboseyo?" Haerim answered the calls with her eyes trained on Taehyung.

"N-Neh-? Give me some time-" Haerim stuttered when Taehyung suddenly rushed up to her. Haerim immediately hung up and pressed her back against the railing.

"Who is it!? Did you reveal it!?" Taehyung snapped, attempting to snatch the phone out of her hands.

"Taehyung! I didn't tell them! It was just an excuse! But I don't have much time either!" Haerim screamed, placing the phone behind her back to keep it away from him.

"Good. Now hand it over! Give it to me!" Taehyung roared, hastily shoving her, causing Haerim to tip over the railing.

"ARGHHH!" Haerim screamed in horror as she lost her balance, but Taehyung quickly grabbed onto her forearms.

"Haerim! Hang on!" Taehyung gasped, gripping onto Haerim's forearm, and tried to haul her back up.

"Taehyung! I don't want to die!" Haerim screamed in horror as she dangled over the roof.

"I won't let you die! I'll help you! Deal?" Taehyung gritted, slowly tugging her up until veins formed all over his arms. Haerim finally found the landing, thrust her feet against the edge, and hugged onto the railing as Taehyung held onto her. Haerim was still standing on the other side of the railing while panting heavily, then looked down at the ground below her in fright.

"The phone- that's not the one," Haerim stuttered at Taehyung, who was gripping onto her phone.

"Where is it?" Taehyung asked, securing his arms around Haerim as she fumbled her hand into her pocket to pull out her disguised phone.

"Here, help me over the railing," Haerim exhaled, shakily handing Taehyung the phone. He tossed the fake phone onto the ground, slid her other phone into his pocket, and grabbed onto her arm. Haerim swung her legs over the railing when someone violently pounded on the rooftop door. Taehyung turned to look at it in horror.

"They're here-"

"You brought someone here?! Wae?! You- you tried to set me up-- " Taehyung turned to snap at her in shock.

"Taehyung! I didn't- I swear!" Haerim argued while staring at the door in horror with one of her legs over the railings. BANG BANG BANG. The person continued to pound on the door.

"You said you didn't tell anyone!" Taehyung snapped, turning to look at her in confusion as the pounding continues.

"I swear- Taehyung! Taehyung- don't leave me please!" Haerim cried when Taehyung suddenly loosened his grip and slowly took a step away from her.

"You betrayed me, again," Taehyung whispered in anger as he backed away, leaving Haerim hanging by herself.

"Taehyung! Jebal! I need you! Don't leave me! I swear I didn't-" Haerim cried, desperately reaching out for Taehyung. And to her horror, Taehyung shot her one last hurtful glare and rushed behind the other side of the rooftop.

"No- no- Taehyung!" Haerim sobbed, watching him disappear just as the door flung open. Kim Namjoon and Kang Minah came stumbling onto the rooftop. Taehyung hid behind the other side and quickly rushed down the stairs in hurry without peeking at the arrivals of the alphas.

"What do you think you're doing?!" Namjoon howled while staring at Haerim, who was crying as she gripped onto the other side of the railing.

"I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!" Haerim cried, weakly pulling herself over the railing, and fell onto the rooftop ground.

"Yah! What's wrong with you!?" Minah snapped, folding her arms at Haerim as she broke down on the ground.

"Were you trying to kill yourself? Wae?!" Namjoon snapped, staring at her in shock.

"I-I I'm sorry- I thought I could stop him-" Haerim cried, pulling herself onto her feet, then turned to look at Namjoon in fear.

"Stop who? What?" Namjoon asked cluelessly.

"Kim Taehyung. What did you do?" Minah's face turned pale as she unfolded her arms in realization.

"He- He took everything! I'm sorry!" Haerim begged, kneeling onto the floor in desperation.

"He took what?" Namjoon's voice darkened as Haerims pressed her forehead against the ground in extreme regret.

"The evidence behind Park Jihyun's cause of death," Haerim wailed tearfully looking up at Namjoon. Minah slowly walked towards the phone on the floor, picked it up, and skimmed through it.

"There's nothing in it," Minah whispered while glaring at Haerim, who knelt before them in grief.

"Who killed Park Jihyun?" Namjoon asked while staring at Haerim, whose lips were trembling in fear. She lost Taehyung, so now... the weak alpha no longer had a choice. She had to save herself.

"J-Jang Sora. Her parents and their allies," Haerim shakily breathed.

"Mwo? Why didn't you tell us sooner?! Ah... so that's what you've been doing behind our back? You told Kim Taehyung, didn't you!? But why- oh. You wanted to betray Namjoon? But ended but getting deceived by Kim Taehyung instead? Your plan backfired," Minah snapped as she stared at Haerim in shock.

"I'm sorry- I was scared. Please spare my life. I promise I'll fix everything! I'll retrieve the confidential files from him! Just give me another chance!" Haerim begged.

"Confidential files??? What are you talking about?" Minah questioned, staring at Haerim in confusion.

"I kept the evidence with your plan to obtain Seokjin's assets- please spare me! I'll get it back!" Haerim pleaded Namjoon, who was now as quiet as a dead corpse.

"Mwo!? How can you be so careless?! Yah!" Minah angrily stomped up to Haerim and yanked her hair.

"Ah! I'm sorry! Please!" Haerim begged, getting onto her feet as Minah tugged her hair back and forth with all her might, making her head throb in pain. 

"Kim Taehyung took it?" Namjoon finally exhaled, staring dully at Haerim.

"I'm really sorry- please," Haerim choked, tilting her head to the side uncomfortably since Minah refused to release her.

"YAH! YOU CRAZY BITCH! HOW CAN YOU ASK HIM FOR FORGIVENESS!?! YOU'VE RUINED EVERYTHING! IF SEOKJIN FINDS OUT ABOUT THE TRUTH, WE'LL ALL BE DEAD!" Minah roared, angrily slapping Haerim, causing her to stumble backward. Haerim resisted Minah, so Minah shoved her hard, causing Haerim to lose her balance and tip over the rooftop once again.

"ARGHHHH!" Haerim screamed, scrambling to grab onto the railings. Haerim lost her grip and fell two feet before gripping onto the edges of the rooftop in horror. Minah panted heavily as she watched Haerim struggling to hang onto her dear life.

"Please s-save me! P-Please! I promise-" Haerim begged, desperately clawing onto the cemented ground in terror as her body started to weigh her down towards the ground below her. Namjoon slowly walked up to the railing and crouched down to stare at her right in the eyes.

"I wish I can save you, but there's nothing left for you to fulfill," Namjoon exhaled, ironically staring at Haerim.

"Your hands! Please!" Haerim cried in fear when she felt her fingers sliding off the cement. So Namjoon sighed and held out one of his hands. She immediately grabbed onto it, expecting him to tug her, but he didn't.

"Haerim-shi. You've weakened me... I don't think I have the strength to save you at this point," Namjoon sighed, staring sadly at her.

"Don't do this- please- I'm begging you!" Haerim cried when she felt her fingers slipping off the edge.

"Don't worry, Jang Sora will take the blame. Your duty is over now. You're dismissed," Namjoon smiled and patted her fingers.

"Namjoon! Please! Minah!" Haerim cried when Namjoon let go of her hand and got onto his feet. He took a step back and stood quietly staring at Haerim as time continued to tick... watching her take her last breath. Minah typed furiously onto Haerim's phone as Haerim scrambled for her life one last time.

Click. Posting... Posted. As soon as the post popped up on the screen, Haerim's body finally gave up on her. She lost her grip and plunged towards her end. Namjoon exhaled and slowly walked towards the railing to look down at the bloody mess below them. Crowds began to form... so he took a step back and made his way down the stairs without another word. Minah bit down onto her lips, shoved Haerim's phone into her pocket before following him out of the building to avoid the security cameras.

Those who fail to pick a fixed side will perish within the society. Just like Haerim, she ran back and forth only to end up in a dead-end. The end of her journey in the society of evil. She was abandoned, left to drown in her own sorrow, outcasted by the packs, and was finally sacrificed to trigger a greater tragedy.

Flashback Ends.

These are the meaning behind Taehyung's words, yet Sora was clueless of it. They both returned to the mansion after realizing they were being watched by different sources all over the society. Sora returned to her room to continue working on her files until Taehyung came strolling in. He was dressed in his usual silky night robe.

Sora's POV

"You've been working too much. Wae? What are you planning to do?" Taehyung asked, approaching me as I leaned against the wall by the desk with the paper in my hands.

"It's the things I should've done since the beginning," Sora muttered, skimming through the assets data of the lower ranks.

"Eliminations? Sora, I know they want us dead. But three people died this week because of your plan. I know you're hurt, but you shouldn't be doing this, even if it's for your parents," Taehyung sighed, leaning against my desk... facing me with a worried expression.

"Well, I am the monster after all. I'm living up to my reputation of being a murderer," I chuckled while listening to the low whispers in my ears.

"The alphas will overthrow us if you keep it up. We can't risk it, it's threatening our marriage," Taehyung sighed, quietly reaching out to pull the files out of my hand, then placed them on the desk to get my attention.

"Then I'll kill everyone one of them. Until there's no one left," I smirked, crossing my arms when I felt the icy cold sensation spreading through my head. I've been suppressing the darkness, thinking it's the right thing to do, but I was wrong. I felt less pain with the darkness's presence in me. Instead of feeling the aching pain, I am now as calm as an isolated lake. I don't care if I'm hurting people. Why? Because they're only getting a taste of my pain, and it's nothing compared to the things I've lost.

"Sora. You're not a monster. You know that. I know it's the darkness. Don't let it guide you, trust me... the ease you're feeling right now isn't worth the pain you'll encounter later. It's only temporary," Taehyung softly shook his head and reached out to hold my hand before straightening himself... inching his face closer to mine.

"And what if I am? Are you going run away from me?" I whispered while staring unblinkingly into his eyes. Taehyung maintained his expression and gazed at me as he rubbed my knuckles in a steady rhythm.

"No. I won't and I won't let you turn into one because as long as I exist- I won't let the darkness win you over," Taehyung whispered while shaking his head, his eyes drifting down to my lips.

"You can't even control your darkness. How are you going to stop mine?" I scoffed at him.

"You know there's a way to stop it," Taehyung whispered, tilting his head to the side and leaned forward to press his lips against mine as I felt his grip on either side of my waist. Taehyung trapped me between his arms with one hand against the wall while he held the side of my jawline with his other hand. Our lips brushing at a steady pace as Taehyung lifted me off the ground and carried me to the bed before laying me down. Taehyung leaned down the kiss my neck as he trailed his hands down the side of my thighs. He then undid his robe to reveal his ripe torso, so I quickly got up, pushed him onto the bed, and sat on him instead. Taehyung reached out to grab my waist and guided me down towards him. I leaned down to kiss him on the lips with my hand pressed on his chest when Taehyung suddenly seethed in discomfort. I pulled my lips away and looked down at his wound.

"Don't worry about it," Taehyung pushed himself up into a sitting position to secure his arms around me as I sat on him. He leaned forwards and nibbled my neck as I gripped onto his hair. I found my way back to his lips and gently kissed him.

"It'll never heal if you don't treat it. Stay here," I whispered, rubbing the side of his cheeks before scrambling off the bed. I pulled my robe back onto myself and strode out of the room. I walked into Taehyung room to search for his cream and pills, then returned with a cup of water.

"You could've waited until we're done," Taehyung shot me a disappointed frown as he sat shirtless on my bed with his arms pressed against the mattress, watching me walk up to him. I got back onto the bed and tucked my feet under me as I sat between his spread-out thighs. He took the pill and water from me while I applied the creams on his chest and back.

"We have to prioritize your health as a supreme alpha," I whispered, putting the cup and cream away before walking up to Taehyung. He immediately wrapped his arm around my waist and tugged me down. I leaned down to kiss him again as I stood in my position while Taehyung sat on the bed. Taehyung hastily pulled me down and rolled me over onto the mattress. He leaned down to kiss me again while gripping onto my hands. Taehyung suddenly paused and blinked uneasily. I pursed my lips to look at him in confusion, so he shook his head and pressed his lips against mine again. I gripped firmly onto Taehyung's jaw and responded to his kiss when I felt his body weighing down onto me. And in a matter of seconds, Taehyung's arms gave up on him, and he dropped weakly onto me.

"Taehyung?" I whispered when he tried to turn his head towards me but failed, so he gently snuggled his face against the side of my neck instead.

"I'm- tired...," Taehyung whispered in a confused tone and gripped onto my hand.

"It's okay, get some rest," I whispered, patting his head and tugged him into me. After two minutes, Taehyung was out. Cold. I let out a heavy sigh, then pushed Taehyung off me, so he flopped unconsciously onto the mattress. Gulping, I got off the bed and walked into the closet to get changed. I glanced at the empty water glass and back to Taehyung, who was sound asleep.

"I'm sorry," I whispered, walking up to him to spread the blanket over his body before sneaking out of the mansion through the back hall. Yes, I had no choice but to drug him to sleep. I can't do anything with Taehyung's hawk-like eyes watching over me.

"Took you long enough," Sungho chuckled as I got into the passenger seat of his car, and we drove off.

"Something came up," I shrugged, leaning back against the seat.

"I guess it isn't easy for you to commute around the city at this point. They're all keeping an eye on you," Sungho nodded, keeping his eyes trained on the road.

"Did you find out?" I questioned, turning to look at him.

"No, not really. I've tried digging into all the sources, but it's still unclear. I don't how Namjoon knew about Park Jihyun's death, but I'll search for more pointers. However, I found something interesting while investigating the old files," Sungho answered, briefly glancing at me.

"Go on," I replied, looking out the window.

"It's not something important, but I thought it was odd. Did you know 40% of the alpha community members died during Jihyun's reign? I thought it was a peaceful era because the half-blood had no desire. But the rate of eliminations and assassinations were at its peaks 17 years ago. The high rate of the alpha's death persisted for five years straight. It started after the third year of Jihyun's reign until his death," Sungho softly tapped the steering wheel with his eyebrows furrowed together. Huh? So that's why the alphas despise Jihyun. He simply didn't care for society?

"He didn't rule the society. Isolated himself from the outside world. So even if he was the supreme alpha, the society didn't really have a leader. The households must've disputed with one another since Jihyun didn't bother to resolve the issues amongst the lower ranks," I nodded. Jihyun's reign was the darkest alpha history because the entire cult was unstable. Alphas attacked one another mercilessly for power while he dismissed them. There was no ruler, so the alphas had no fear. Because of Jihyun's neglect, many innocent lives were lost after being caught up in the conflict. The society as a whole almost collapsed.

"Anyways, I've got you what you asked for. Come on, I'll show it to you," Sungho smiled, halting the car after we arrived at a warehouse. Sungho pushed the buttons, causing the thick metallic door to slide open, revealing a gleaming black motorbike in the center of the storehouse.

"Pretty isn't she?" Minho smiled as I walked up to the huge black motorbike and carefully placed my hands on it in awe.

"You don't disappoint," I smiled at Sungho as I ran my hands over the details.

"But why? Someone as delicate as you shouldn't pick a bike. You could've gotten a car instead," Sungho questioned, eyeing the bike with his hands placed in his pockets.

"I didn't understand why Taehyung prefers a bike over a car, but I do now. It might be deadlier than a car, but with just a snap- I'll be zooming at godspeed. And for your information, I'm nowhere near being delicate," I chuckled at him.

"Not to me. You're a badass. But to the society, that's your image and reputation," Sungho shook his head.

"And they've ruined it," I exhaled. Yes, the favor I asked from Sungho was to get me a motorbike. I'm tired of depending on people to take me to places, so I'll drive on my own and bring myself anywhere as I wish. I can easily escape a chase with a bike, unlike a car. Sungho said he knew how to ride a bike, so I asked him to teach me. It only took me three tries to get the hang of it.

"I don't think you need my help. I initially doubted your choice, but I guess this is what you're born for," Sungho laughed as I turned the throttle handle of the bike and shot down the private pavement, zooming back and forth. The speed made me feel at ease... the faster I go... the fewer thoughts in my head. The thoughts can't catch up with my speed. I did a few practices with Sungho throughout the night and by the break of dawn- I was ready. Sungho took me back to the mansion, so I sneaked back into my room to find Taehyung still asleep on the bed. I tiptoed to get changed and made my way to the bed and was about to lay down when Taehyung opened his eyes.

"Where did you go?" He asked while staring at me from underneath his messy bangs, causing my heart to stop beating.

"I- went out for a morning jog. I didn't want to wake you up since you said you were exhausted," I shrugged, nervously sitting down beside him. Taehyung stared at me in silence. Fuck... did he wake up sooner than expected? I used the right amount of dose though-

"I said I was tired? Ah. I'm sorry," Taehyung grunted as he rubbed his face before sitting up and leaned against the bedhead. I let out of soft exhale in relief... it worked.

"I will return to the university today," I shrugged, scratching my head as I rested my head on the pillow. Taehyung yawned and glanced down at me. He gently brushed my hair with his fingers to keep it from hanging over my face.

"Wae? Do you think you can handle the pressure? There'll be a lot of burdens," Taehyung grumbled hoarsely while staring at me with his groggy eyes. I reached out to hold his hand, so he interlaced our fingers on the pillow.

"I'm only going there to witness the terror, and I'll pick up Jungkook too. He's going to be discharged today," I nodded at Taehyung. Taehyung fell silent as he traced his thumb over my lips, then bent down to kiss my forehead. I tilted my head, so he gently pecked me on the lips. I grabbed his jaw and kissed him again when he tried to pull away, making him smile.

"Ah. That's right, I'll get changed then," Taehyung nodded, getting off the bed to expose his ripe body.

"Don't forget your robe," I chuckled, tossing it at him. Taehyung caught it, slid it over himself, and leaned over to kiss my forehead again before walking out of my room. I gulped and gripped tightly onto the necklace around my throat as I watched him disappear. The heaviness within my chest is back. We left the mansion together and attended the university only to be greeted by intense stares from every direction. Taehyung and I brushed it off and made our way into the building. They want us dead... disapproving glares were burning into the flesh of my skins as I passed them.

"Sora!" Hoseok waved, jogging towards Taehyung and I.

"How are things going?" I questioned weakly.

"Not so good. Everyone is keeping their distance from you. You should be careful and head home but the good news is- Yoongi finally woke up. He's not well yet, but I had a little talk with him. He asked for you, so visit him if you can. His parents want to thank you," Hoseok dimly smiled at me.

"I will visit him," I nodded at Hoseok.

"You really shouldn't be here-"

"JANG SORA!" Someone roared at the top of their lungs, cutting Hoseok short, so we all turned around to find the familiar flaming red heels stomping down the corridor.

"Here comes the snakue~" Hoseok huffed loathingly at Minah's presence. Her head was bandaged from the impact I caused during our argument.

"What do you think you're doing!? I never knew you'd stoop so low-"

"Not as low as you, don't worry," I shot her off. Minah fired me a flustered look. She didn't learn her lesson? Fearless... how long can Namjoon protect you? Not for long.

"You wicked whore! Did you really think you can kill me with your fucking scheme?!" Minah screamed in frustration. The Kang's signed plenty of contracts with the Jeons while Minah was dating Jungkook, and I found out she has been using Jungkook to dodge all the fees and revenue taxes. Jungkook must've agreed to help her avoid all the debt, but sadly, I recovered all the records, and now she has to repay. And it's worth 40% of her accumulative assets, which is enough to de-rank her into the lower ranks.

"I didn't plan on killing you. Oh god, not you. I will not show you any mercy," I bitterly stared at her.

"You fucking eliminated the weak households, and you know what's funny? They're either my people or Namjoon's!" Minah screamed in frustration.

"So? At least I showed them some mercy," I tilted my head at her.

"M-mercy?! Killing is your way of showing mercy!? They weren't wrong about you, a nightmare dressed like a daydream!" Minah roared angrily.

"Dying is the quickest way to end the pain. And for your information, I didn't kill them. I offered them a choice, and they couldn't bear it, so they chose the quicker path," I sourly stared at her.

"Do you really think you can get away with all this slaughter!? Even the supreme alpha status won't guarantee your security anymore, not when the power doesn't belong to you in the first place! Just wait until I tear you into shreds with my own hands," Minah gritted, slowly backing away from me.

"Araso. I'll be waiting. Rest assured though... you won't die. I won't let you die. I'll make sure you feel every bit of the pain I've felt. I'll revive you over and over again and make sure you suffer the greatest pain. I'll make you wish you were better off dead," I sneered at her and marched away without another word. Taehyung and Hoseok both stared at me in disbelief.

"Go home. It's not safe. We shouldn't have come here. Take her home safely, or I'll kill you," Taehyung anxiously examined my surging darkness before turning towards Hoseok.

"You should try to be nicer when asking someone for a favor," Hoseok glared at Taehyung, who pursed his lips in discontent. I was about to walk away when Taehyung caught my waist, so I turned to give him a questioning look. He didn't say anything and leaned in to kiss my lips. I patted his forearm and followed Hoseok into the parking lot.

"Bring me to Seokjin's shooting range," I demanded, leaning back against the car seat.

"Wae? How did you know-"

"His schedule is repetitive," I shrugged as Hoseok drove out of the university.

"Seokjin isn't happy with the truth either. No one is. I'm as shocked Sora," Hoseok bit his lips.

"I know. I don't blame you. I was as devastated when I found out my parents murdered the half-blood for his power," I sighed in exhaustion. They all failed to see me as a living being. They're all blaming me for Park Jihyun's tragic death without knowing the actual truth. In their eyes, I'll always be the sinner.

"So it wasn't you, but you're taking all the responsibility. I'm really sorry," Hoseok pitifully glanced at me.

"Tsk. Don't be sorry. You should switch sides while you still can. I won't stop you, but once you're on the other side, I will not see you as a friend anymore," I muttered while staring up ahead of us.

"Are you threatening me? Don't worry, I wasn't planning to switch. Yoongi will not allow it. The Mins will definitely stand with you after what you've done for them," Hoseok shook his head.

"Nothing is promising. Everyone who claims to be a friend turns out to be an enemy hiding beneath their masks," I gulped. I won't expect anything because I'll only end up very disappointed.

"That's because they were never your friend. I know it's hard to believe anyone after going through all the betrayals, but genuine people exist. Even if the world sees you as a bad person... I- I mean Yoongi... Jungkook, Taehyung, and maybe even Seokjin knows you aren't a bad person. We've seen the effort and struggles within you. Your ambition to protect your people despite the pain they caused... it really... stuns me. The alphas usually don't forgive each other, but you're different. You give us chances. Sure, you're a bit fucked up lately with all the killing spree, but that doesn't mean you're a ruthless murderer. No one is innocent, and no one is guilty free in this situation. We've all done terrible things- things that should never be spoken of or reminded of. It's the things we do to ensure our Survival. Even if it's a crime in their eyes, we have no choice but to do it. This is the Game of Survival. There's no good or bad. They might call you a cheater for the deadly crimes you've committed, but it's the only way for you to Survive. Rules are meant to be followed, but when you're desperate, it's meant to be broken. I'm not saying you're doing the right thing. I'm saying I understand why you're doing what you're doing. So, don't be too hard on yourself. I just hope you can handle the regrets of your current actions in the future. Because you will definitely feel the guilt for the crimes you've committed. It's the consequences you'll have to face, and as I friend- I pray you can cope with the guilt and sorrow you'll feel because it will destroy a part of you," Hoseok turned to look at me sadly. I fell silent for a long moment.

"I've already lost myself," I finally looked him dead in the eyes when we stopped in front of the shooting range.

"Sora. You can lose materialistic things and feelings but never yourself. You will always be you. Don't let the pain, greed, and sorrow blind you from recognizing your true self," Hoseok shook his head at me. Is he a philosopher? Because everything he says is never... shallow... I always find myself diving deep into his words.

"Thank you for the ride," I smiled at Hoseok. I entered the shooting range building and walked into the lobby.

"How can we serve you miss?" The staff smiled at me.

"Take me to Kim Seokjin," I said shortly.

"I'm not sure who you're looking for-"

"Floor 7th. Room 7th. Kim Seokjin," I repeated, staring at her dully.

"I'm sorry, but our policy is to protect our client's identity and information-

"Do I have to repeat myself?" I rudely cut her off, causing her mouth to drop open at my rudeness.

"I'll get my manager," She gulped, rushing away, then returned with a man dressed in a suit. His face turned pale as soon as he saw me. He knows who I am.

"Ms. Jang! I apologized for my worker's lack of professionalism," The guy quickly bowed at me and nudged the girl, so she shot me a confused look.

"I'm very sorry," The staff lowered her head.

"Gwaenchana. It's best to be clueless," I shook my head, so the manager took me up the elevator and led me towards the VIP floor. He held the door open for me, so I strode inside to find Seokjin firing at the target. Every shot was a bull's eye. I quietly sat down on the couch and watched Seokjin finish his round. Seokjin let out a deep exhale and took off his headgear before scanning the result of his aims.

"I know you want to win me over, but did you really have to stalk me? You're invading my personal time," Seokjin asked, finally turning around to look at me.

"It's not stalking," I rolled my eyes at him.

"Is it not? Let me see? You know all of my schedules for the next two weeks, is it not stalking?" Seokjin laughed while pouring water into his mouth.

"Should I expose your illegal trading-"

"Yah. Don't go too far. I feel really uncomfortable to have you digging into my confidential information," Seokjin quickly cuts me off.

"It's exactly what you've been doing to everyone else. Stalking. Like how you got my number when I first arrived in Seoul," I muttered as I crossed my legs.

"Ohoh! I got it from bribing your staff. Tsk. I was suspicious of you, so I had to keep my eyes on you. Your people's loyalty is very uncertain. You should train them better," Seokjin defended himself.

"And I bribed your people for your schedule as well. We're no different Seokjin-shi," I sighed at him. Seokjin glared at the door in annoyance, referring to his staff. We're no better than each other.

"Why are you here?" Seokjin's tone suddenly changed.

"You know why I'm here," I raised my eyebrows.

"What makes you think I'll side with you? You went around eliminating the lower ranks. It isn't a very great move for a household with such a shocking scandal," Seokjin scoffed as he leaned back against the couch. I got onto my feet and stepped onto the platform to pick up the gun before aiming it at the moving target beyond the counter.

"You know the reason," I said shortly. BANG. I fired the gun, causing the room to fall quiet for a moment.

"You purposely made it sloppy to infuriate Namjoon. You're playing around with him, teasing him towards his edges. But the downside? You're putting your household in more danger. The alphas will not hold back for long. You're burning a fraction of a rice field to scare the crows... but the fire will spread. And before you realize it, the fire you set to frighten the crows will end up burning down everything," Seokjin replied.

"And that's why I came here to see you," I replied, aiming the gun at Seokjin. Seokjin stared unblinkingly at me with a straight face.

"You want me to stop the fire? The fire you can't control?" Seokjin tilted his head at me. I expected him to flinch at gunpoint, but he didn't. He has been pretending all along? To be scared of me? So I'd lower my guards?

"You have no choice. You'll perish without a side. Even if Namjoon wants you back, I won't allow it," I sighed, handling the gun to observe Seokjin's reaction, but he didn't seem bothered.

"What a great honor. Even without my assets, I am still the most powerful when it comes to strategic fights," Seokjin nodded, getting up onto his feet. He walked up to me as I aimed the gun right at him. Is he pretending to be cool? I'm sure he's panicking.

"Aren't you afraid? I'm no longer the Jang Sora you used to know. I will pull the trigger without hesitation," I whispered, gripping tightly onto the gun as he got to me.

"Sora-shi. I am not your target. If you keep on shooting down innocent lives, the bullets will backfire. Either wounding those around you or yourself," Seokjin slowly guided my arm and turned me back towards the target.

"Instead of aimlessly projecting your anger, gather it. Gather all of the pain and rage, hold it in. You'll feel the pressure growing within your chest. It'll be a bit uncomfortable- but don't lose focus. Concentrate on all the anger and lay low. Watch your prey... study the movements of your target. And you'll find the pattern... thrust back all your anger and raise your arms with your eyes trained on the target. Until it reaches the right point... then... you channel all of your hatred and... fire," Seokjin whispered. He was standing behind me as he held onto my forearm, slightly raising it up towards the moving target. I kept my eyes trained on the unpredictable movement, and as he advised me... I gathered all my pain... grief... and anger. Everything suddenly shuts out from around me as I stared at the target popping up at different places. Despite the random movements, I managed to keep my eyes trained at the one empty spot... waiting for the right moment. The target popped up, and BANG BANG BANG. I fired right at the target. One-shot... right in the center of the forehead. One right on the heart and the other right in the middle of the chest. The three crucial spots.

"Congratulations, you are a quick learner," Seokjin chuckled, letting go of my arms, then backed away from me, so I placed the gun down and exhaled in relief. 

"Were you always this good at acting? You should be an actor," I stared at him. He pretends to be clueless, but he isn't.

"Mwo? I don't know what you're saying, but I'll take it as I compliment," Seokjin laughed, plopping back down onto the couch.

"You always flinch at gunpoint, but you didn't a moment ago," I rolled my eyes.

"Oh. Of course, I'll flinch at gunpoint, I don't want to die with a bullet in my head," Seokjin nodded at me.

"There you go again," I scoffed, walking towards the opposite couch.

"Yah. I didn't flinch when you aimed at me because I knew you had horrible aims. Even if you fired, the bullets will miss me... considering your odd position. You were pointing too far to the right. What did you say a moment ago? You're not the same Jang Sora? Pfff same or not, both versions of Jang Sora are bad at aiming. Did you think you could scare me with 'I'm not the same Jang Sora' when you're pointing the gun in the wrong direction? Jeez. If you want to be scary, at least know how to use a gun. I flinched when Taehyung or the alphas carried a gun because they're good at it. But not you. I almost burst out laughing when you threatened me, but no, I was nice enough to hold it in and not embarrass you on the spot," Seokjin bickered, snapping at me in a quick pace.

"Wah~ you're unbelievable! Don't you have a filter in your mouth?! How can you say such mean things!" I complained in shock. Last time he said I was too fat! Now he's mocking my gun skills.

"Sora-shi. Honesty is the best policy," Seokjin pursed his lips at me to hold in his laughter.

"Is this funny to you?" I spoke in a serious tone. He's so annoying.

"I don't think I'm allowed to laugh because of the new Jang Sora," Seokjin bit down on his lips to stop himself from laughing.

"Yah!" I snapped, angrily hurling the water bottle at him, causing Seokjin to burst into laughter.

"I'm not the same Jang Sora. AHAHAHA! You should've seen yourself saying it HAHAHA!" Seokjin laughed so hard tears filled his eyes. I sat speechlessly, staring at him in shock. What the hell is wrong with him? It doesn't matter what situations we're in... he'll always find a way to embarrass me.

"Aish! I'm leaving! You're so annoying!" I gripped my hair in frustration and stomped out of the room but quickly re-tracked my path back into the room.

"I thought you were leaving. Wae? Did the old Sora make you-"

"Takchoh! I need a ride, so get up!" I snapped at him in irritation.

"Am I your personal driver? Ah- right- the new Sora still doesn't know how to drive-ahaha! YAHH!" Seokjin teased when I started pinching him with all my might, making him jump around in pain.

"Stop it before I peel off your skins," I gritted at him.

"Aish! Jinja! What a nutjob!" Seokjin snapped, stomping out of the room. We both left the building together.

"Give me a definite answer," I said shortly.

"I'll stand by your side, it's not like I have a choice," Seokjin muttered, reversing the car, and we zoomed off.

"Did you figure out a plan? This isn't only my fight but yours as well," I asked, turning to look at him.

"I can use various methods to break Namjoon by little, but my initial assets will wither away along with him too, so I can't do it. I need to find a reliable plan to safely retrieve my full power back without losing any of it," Seokjin sighed heavily.

"Isn't the contracts the problem? Why don't you get it back?" I questioned.

"That easy? Do you think I can burst into his house and scream Namjoon-ah give me back my contracts? Even if I pleaded him, he'll never return it," Seokjin scoffed in irritation.

"I'm sure there's a way to retrieve it," I nodded, glancing out the window.

"So your parents really killed Park Jihyun? His death wasn't just a mere accident," Seokjin asked, causing my chest to stir uneasily.

"That's what everyone assumes, including me. It makes sense how I suddenly became the supreme alpha," I shrugged cluelessly.

"So you were clueless since the beginning. But how? How can you not know anything? You were seven when you became the supreme alpha. And you were Jihyun's ally as well," Seokjin continued.

"I lost my memories. I drowned when I was younger, and my parents took the opportunity to restart my life," I explained.

"Wah~ I see why you aren't on good terms with your parents and Taehyung now. He knew about your status since the beginning, and that's why he was always protective of you despite claiming you're just an average," Seokjin nodded.

"You have good observation skills, and you also have a broad range of connections throughout the society. Therefore, can you look into something for me?" I asked.

"Will I benefit from it?" Seokjin smirked, sideways glancing at me.

"Aish. Were you always like this? Anyways, look into Haerim's death. I don't know where the truth will lead us to, but I feel like there's an unsolved problem related to her death. Maybe it'll lead you to your answer as well. To Namjoon," I rolled my eyes. Seokjin fell quiet for a moment as we got to Sungho's warehouse.

"She's hiding something Namjoon desperately wants. Araso, I'll look into it," Seokjin exhaled as we came to a stop.

"Thanks for the ride," I quickly hopped off.

"What are you doing here anyway?" Seokjin asked, scanning the huge private property.

"To upgrade myself," I smiled, stretching my arms out. Ah... I should get some sleep.

"Mwo?" Seokjin shot me a baffled expression.

"By the way, you laugh like a windshield wiper. Eeeek Eeek eeek," I smirked, leaning down on his window.

"MWO?!" Seokjin shot me a sharp glare.

"You've got the visual... but the laugh... it's such a turnoff," I grinned at him and walked away.

"YAH! Come back!" Seokjin screamed, offended by my words. I raised up my arms and waved at him dismissively before heading inside to grab my bike and did a few practice sessions on my own.

Hospital

I arrived at the hospital in the afternoon to accompany Jungkook home. Minho informed me Jungkook could walk on his own again, but he still needs to be wary of his injury. I visited the medical suite, but it was empty. Did he leave? With whom? Ani. I'm sure he didn't leave yet. I exhaled and headed back downstairs to search for him when a family came walking out of the resting room with their halmeoni in a wheelchair. Every one of them appears to be excited about her recovery. I stepped to the side to let them pass as they led her out. The mother was holding onto a bouquet while the grandchildren beamed happily. Family and happiness. It's something I can never have but hopelessly yearn for. I let out a soft sigh and turned around to find Jungkook jogging down the stairs with a small bundle of baby's breath flowers in his hand. He's dressed in a baseball pinstripe jersey, black pants, and a white backward cap. (Highlight Reel Outfit)

Jungkook jogged down the stairs and turned down the left corridor as I stood on the opposite side of the lobby. Is he visiting someone? Out of curiosity, I trailed after him... keeping my distance from him. Why is he wandering around the hospital? Even if I was behind him- I could sense his radiating enthusiasm as he sniffed the flowers. He seems to be in a great mood. He's fond of flowers because his mother was a florist. Jungkook finally halted in front of the door at the end of the hallway and softly knocked on it. He is visiting someone. Confused, I walked after him as he entered the room, leaving the door half-open. I stopped by the doorway to watch Jungkook stare disappointedly at the empty bed before him. Ah... he must've came here to visit someone. I tilted my head to read the name tag beside the door. Chul Hwa-young. Oh... Sungho's sister? I turned back towards Jungkook, who was standing motionlessly inside the room.

"She left without a goodbye?" I finally spoke up.

"Ah! You scared me!" Jungkook jumped in panic. He wildly turned to look at me in surprise.

"Wae? Do you like her? I didn't know you were this nice to strangers," I smiled, stepping inside the room as Jungkook dropped his hands to his sides.

"You didn't visit me for days. I thought no one is coming to escort me," Jungkook sulked.

"Things got a bit complicated. I'll explain later. Come on, let's go home," I nodded towards the doorway. Jungkook darted me an upset look as he exited the room.

"Are you here with Taehyung?" Jungkook questioned with an empty expression. 

"Ani. Just me, I came here myself. Give me the flowers," I smiled, snatching the flowers from his hand.

"Ani! Give it back!" Jungkook whined, trying to pull it out of my hand, causing my chest to ache a little.

"Ah. I'm hurt... Why are you treating me this way? You spat cabbage at me when we first met, but you got flowers for a stranger," I glared, pushing Jungkook's arm away.

"Wah. Why are you bringing it up again? You reminded me of our past. I was startled," Jungkook huffed in disbelief.

"I'm just disappointed in you. Where did you get the flowers anyways...? Did you leave the hospital earlier?" I asked while sniffing the bundle of flowers.

"Do you think I'd put that much effort for a mere average?" Jungkook rolled his eyes, causing me to stop dead. Wait a minute... I stared at the small bundle of baby's breath unsurely. I've seen these before... but where- oh. The family.

"Don't tell me you stole it-"

"I didn't steal it! I just grabbed a handful while they weren't looking!" Jungkook argued. How is that different from stealing?

"Hah. Yah! You're an alpha. You shouldn't go around taking people's-"

"That's why you don't deserve it! Give it back. You deserve better, so stop complaining about the cabbage incident," Jungkook argued, putting out his hand for the flowers.

"I can't believe you. If you like her, at least give her-"

"Give it back!" Jungkook suddenly snatched the flower out of my grip and shoved it into the dustbin. I stood staring at him in shock, taken aback by his aggressiveness. How can he be so insensitive?

"Whatever," I grumbled, stomping off with my arms crossed.

"Yah! Yah! Are you mad? Hajima!" Jungkook called after me as I felt the burning hot sensation in my chest. I'm so upset! Wae? I don't know. I'm upset about everything!

"Ah! Ah! My back hurts!" Jungkook suddenly whined, making me halt. I gulped and slowly turned to find Jungkook rubbing his back. He pursed his lips awkwardly and looked up at me. Aish... how dare he pretends to be hurt...? When he's completely fine?

"Go find Hwa-young- shi. Maybe she'll ease your pain," I huffed ironically and marched away. Did he think I'd fall for his pretentious acts?

"Araso! Araso! What's with the attitude? Let me explain myself," Jungkook jogged after me after I dismissed his fake whimper. He caught my arms to stop me from walking forward.

"You don't have to. I don't need an explanation," I pulled my arms out of his grip.

"I don't like her~! I just got her the flowers without hesitation because I wanted to bid her goodbye. Baby breath symbolizes innocence and purity," Jungkook justified himself, widening his doe eyes at me.

"And eternal love. And one's commitment to a relationship- AND it's also a confession to a lover," I finished his sentence.

"Yah- w-wae-! I swear I didn't mean it that way!" Jungkook huffed at me in shock with his mouth hanging open.

"Why do I care? I don't care. Whatever," I shrugged and tried to turn away again when Jungkook suddenly pulled me into a crushing hug.

"You have to care. Don't be like this," Jungkook muttered, softly patting my head as he held me against him.

"Yah! Let me go!" I snapped, stirring within his arms in irritation.

"The flower was stolen without an effort, but that's not the only reason why I didn't give it to you. I refused to let you have it because I don't want to say goodbye. I'm not going to say goodbye to you," Jungkook whispered while holding me firmly in his arms.

"What do you mean? How is it even related?" I mumbled against his chest, trying to piece his words together. Jungkook let out a huge sigh and pulled away. He gripped onto my shoulders and stared at me right in the eyes.

"I brought the flowers to say goodbye. And you're not that person. I will not say goodbye to you because you'll be a part of my presence, future, and remaining life. I can't lose you again, and that's why I didn't want you to have the flower," Jungkook sighed, biting down on his lower lips. I fell quiet when I felt an odd stir within my chest.

"Why did you- have to dive that deep over a mere flower?" I awkwardly scratched my head as my anger subsided.

"You were the one getting upset over it. And I'm serious, so don't let a meaningless flower bother you. You've got enough weight on your shoulders," Jungkook pursed his lips at me. I stood wordlessly staring at him... lost in my thoughts. When I look at him... why do I feel so calm? His huge doe eyes sparkled so brightly I couldn't keep my eyes off it. And the warmth within my chest...? Why is it so welcoming? Usually, it feels so foreign to me... but the warmness I feel towards him... it's very subtle... it comes so naturally.

"Araso, I get it. Let's go home," I nodded, snapping out of my thought, and quickly rushed out of the hospital.

"Are you jealous?" Jungkook smiled, tugging my arm again.

"Ani. Why would I be," I avoided his eyes. Jungkook didn't say anything but shot me a teasing smile.

"You are jealous. Aigo~ how cute," Jungkook mumbled to himself while shaking his head.

"Did you hurt your head too?" I shot him a joking glare as we got to the parking lot.

"How are we going to get home- you said you didn't come with Taehyung," Jungkook paused when he noticed the black bike.

"I didn't," I shrugged, walking up to it.

"Then why- ani- mwo? Why are you putting on the helmet- wait a minute- don't tell me-" Jungkook tried to finish his sentence but couldn't, so he averted his eyes back and forth between the bike and me.

"Here," I smiled, pushing the helmet into his hands while Jungkook gawked at me in shock.

"Yah. What the hell is going on?!" Jungkook gasped when I got onto the bike and started the engine.

"Get on, it's getting dark. We have to head home," I smiled while mounting the bike.

"Are you serious...? You-"

"Hurry! We don't have time!" I snapped, so Jungkook scratched his head and got onto the bike. He sat stiffly behind me.

"Did Taehyung make you do this-"

"Ani. I learned it myself," I shook my head, slowly making our way across the hospital ground.

"And he allowed it? This? Is he out of his mind?!" Jungkook snapped, gripping tightly onto the bike.

"He doesn't know," I smiled, turning towards the exit.

"But it's only been a few days. How the hell did you learn to ride-"

"It's my first time driving, and you're my first company as well," I grinned and glanced at the mirror. Even with the helmet on, I could see Jungkook's face turning pale.

"Yah- are you kidding me! Stop! I'm getting off!" Jungkook shakily tapped my shoulder, but I didn't listen.

"Don't you trust me?" I smiled as we reached the exit.

"YAH! HOW CAN I TRUST YOU WHEN THIS IS YOUR FIRST TIME DRIVING?! YOU'RE NOT DRIVING!- STOP!" Jungkook screamed, tensing up his muscles.

"Learn to trust me then. Hold on tight," I smiled and twisted the throttle with all my might. The bike roared angrily and jerked forward at full speed.

"SORAAAAAA!" Jungkook screamed, tightly hugging my waist as I leaned forward to battle the wind current.

"Don't worry! I'll get you home safely!" I grinned, accelerating our speed as we raced down the road.

"I BARELY RECOVERED FROM MY INJURY! ARE YOU TRYING TO BREAK MY SPINE AGAIN!?" Jungkook screamed in horror when I sharply turned down the left intersection, causing the bike to drift across the asphalt road.

"I'm not a spine breaker. We'll be fine," I laughed, speeding up as I kept my eyes trained on the road ahead of me. We were speeding so fast I can barely make out the features of the buildings along our sides.

"SLOW DOWN-AH! YAH! STOP RIGHT NOW! STOP! STOP! STOP! AH- JEBAAAAAAL~ PLEASE SPARE MY LIFE..." Jungkook screamed at the top of his lungs but suddenly cried in desperation when I neglected his plead. Jungkook screamed for another ten minutes before falling silent after losing his voice and tightly hugged me from the back. I glanced through the rearview mirror to find him screwing his eyes shut in fear. We finally arrived at the warehouse and halted on the concrete driveway.

"I told you, you'll be alright," I laughed, taking off the helmet. I tried to move, but Jungkook was still clutching onto me.

"Yah. Let go of me!" I snapped, trying to tug his arms off me, yet Jungkook refused to free me. He stubbornly fastened his grip and pressed his face into my back.

"Why are you like this?! Get off!" I snapped while glaring through the mirror as Jungkook nervously bit down on his lips, refusing to open his eyes.

"Araso. It seems like you want to go for another ride-" I shrugged, gripping onto the gear handle again.

"Ani! Andwae! I don't need another round!" Jungkook immediately let go of me and scrambled off the bike in panic, but his legs wobbled weakly, causing him to tumble onto the ground.

"Gwaenchana!?" I gasped, leaping off the bike to help him.

"Am I okay?! Don't touch me!" Jungkook grunted, holding up his hands to keep me away, so I stood in my place while Jungkook knelt on the ground to gather his thoughts. He let out a hefty blow and stretched his back in relief.

"Gosh," I huffed, turning to look at the warehouse to find Sungho jogging towards me. Why is he being such a baby?

"Sora! I was so worried about you! My guards notified me you took the bike on your own," Sungho panted heavily as I watched Jungkook struggling to push himself onto his feet. Attempting to balance himself.

"I'm fine. I took it out for a test drive. I brought Jungkook back in one piece, so I guess I'm ready," I nodded at Jungkook, so he fired me a furious glare.

"A test drive!? Hah! Am I your dummy?! I could've died!" Jungkook snapped, uncomfortably rubbing his back as he leaned against the bike for support.

"You're insane. But I'm glad you came back safely," Sungho anxiously glanced at Jungkook, who was patting his back, as pale as a ghost.

"Tsk. It was you wasn't it? How can you agree to get her a bike!? Are you low-key trying to kill her? I almost died too, for your information!" Jungkook snapped at Sungho while wiping the sweat off his forehead.

"I'm sorry. It isn't my intention to harm either of you. I only did what Sora asked-"

"Don't mind to him. He's a bit traumatized," I shook my head at Sungho.

"It must be the side effects of the medications," Sungho pursed his lips pitifully as he stared at Jungkook.

"Are you saying I'm crazy?!" Jungkook scoffed, widening his eyes in shock.

"See. He's exaggerating. It's very depressing to watch," I pouted at Sungho. I'm having fun teasing Jungkook, and I love how Sungho is playing along with me.

"Aigo. I pray he makes his full recovery soon. He must be struggling to pull himself together," Sungho continued.

"YAH! COME HERE! YAH! HOW DARE YOU MAKE FUN OF ME!- AAHHH!" Jungkook yelped, limping towards Sungho, who burst out laughing. Jungkook tried to grab Sungho but whimpered in pain and grabbed onto his back instead. I quickly held onto Jungkook to stop him from collapsing onto the ground.

"I'm sorry. I'll take you home," Sungho grinned and walked away.

"Don't move too much. You'll only hurt yourself and calm down," I smiled as I supported Jungkook.

"My back was fine until now! Aish!" Jungkook whined, stomping on the ground in frustration. Is he seriously throwing a tantrum? Wah~! Sungho returned with his car and took us back to the mansion. I thanked him and headed inside the mansion to find the elders waiting inside the living room with Taehyung. Jungkook's face suddenly dimmed at their presence.

"Welcome home. We were rooting for your arrival," Eomma smiled pretentiously at Jungkook. Taehyung was standing by the wall with his arms crossed with his dull eyes trained on us. Oh, look at those smiles... it's so keen... so thrilled... and thirsty... tsk.

"We're finally a whole again. I've prepared a feast to celebrate our reunion!" Eomma beamed cheerfully. The elders happily smiled and strolled towards the dining room together. Taehyung quietly walked behind us as we entered the room and sat in our respective seats. Jimin sat beside Taehyung, who was sitting on the opposite side of Jungkook and I.

"Let's celebrate Jungkook's recovery! May you live a healthy and blissful life as the heir of the Jeon's household, our most trusted ally," Mrs. Kim smiled, raising her wine glass for Jungkook. The elders toasted and burst into loud chatters. They're in a festive mood... except for us. Taehyung, Jimin, Jungkook, and I sat quietly staring at our plates as we listened to their conversation. Taehyung kept on glancing back and forth between Jungkook and I. He's uneasy. I can sense it and Jimin's restlessly watching the elders. Jungkook, on the other hand, sat stiffly in his seat. Despite our wandering thoughts, we all knew one thing in common. The elder's joyous laugh isn't because of Jungkook's recovery. Thus, it's to celebrate their upcoming succession of greater power.

The Next day

Afternoon: 4:00 PM

It's finally the day my parents and the elders have been anticipating. Along with the elder's lively atmosphere, followed a hint of anxiety. The elders bustled throughout the mansion, humming excitedly at the upcoming event. And despite the uplifting mood, I felt super heavy. I messed up my hair in frustration after working the entire day, then decided to venture into the garden for some fresh air. Everything is too complicated for me to resolve. What is wrong with me? What am I seeking?! And why can't I find an answer?! I suddenly froze on the bench when I felt someone leaning on my back from behind.

"Ah. I finally found you. I'm so tired," Jungkook whispered in a weak tone. He was leaning onto me from the back in a standing position while I sat on the bench.

"Don't arch your back. It must be uncomfortable," I muttered when Jungkook weighed himself down onto me and rested his chin on my shoulder.

"I had to walk all the way here to find you, ah," Jungkook lifted himself off me, circled the bench, and sat down beside me.

"You should've rested in your room," I bit my lips anxiously. Why am I having a hard time staring at his drained expression? There's this unexplainable feeling within my chest, and it's irritating me.

"I couldn't stop tossing and turning. So I got up to look for you. I came here because I wanted to let out the thoughts I've been pondering. I think you deserve to know the truth," Jungkook gulped, sideways eyeing me.

"Your thoughts? Something is bothering you?" I cluelessly examined his... hopeless expression. Jungkook pursed his lips for a moment and thought hard to himself as I waited for a response. Jungkook let out an unsteady breath and looked at me in the eyes. There was so much in his eyes... I can see it... so much he has been holding in. Why didn't I notice it earlier? Was I that oblivious? Or is he finally revealing his misery?

Fast Forward

The Marriage Meeting: 11:00 PM

I sat staring at my reflection in the mirror to contemplate my final decision in utter silence. This is it. It's finally time. Whatever happens, I need to trust myself. After untangling my complicated thoughts and trouble... I've found the answer. I know what I want, and it's time to give them the answer they've been longing for. I carefully made my way down the gloomy hallway just as Jungkook walked out of his room. He shot me an anxious look as I quietly walked past him to join Taehyung, who was waiting for me by the staircase with Jimin. The elders gathered inside the meeting room before us, so we entered after them. I sat down at my seat, opposite from my father. Jungkook sat to my right, along with his parents and my mother. Taehyung sat to my left, along with Jimin, the Parks, and their parents.

"I'm glad you kept your promise," Appa smiled as a secretary stepped in with a set of files. Jungkook gulped and uneasily rubbed his fingers as the secretary placed the file in front of Taehyung. Taehyung has been giving me doubtful looks yet refused to confront me with his difficulties. He must be holding back for the sake of our marriage.

"Let's get it over with. We've brought you a new set," Eomma nodded. Taehyung lifted his pen and flipped through the files to find the signature spaces, then hovered the pen over the paper. The elders leaned back with smug smiles on their faces. Taehyung took off the cap but abruptly stopped and slowly looked up at me when I carefully pulled the ring off my ring finger and placed it on the table.

"Oh? Do you wish to put the ring on again? Ah. Of course, we shouldn't skip the most important part of a marriage," Mrs. Kim beamed happily. Taehyung sat stiffly in his seat as he stared at me. I said nothing and reached behind my neck to unclip the necklace and place it beside the ring. And finally slid the bracelet off my wrist. I softly inhaled and exhaled in relief. Ah. I feel so much lighter without the leashes. Taehyung glanced at the jewelry on the table, then skeptically averted his eyes back to me with an unsettled gaze as he tried to process my actions.

"I'm so proud of you guys-"

"I'll give you my answer now," I cut eomma short, causing the entire room to fall quiet. Taehyung didn't budge at all with his pen suspended over the documents.

"I'd like to congratulate you in advance," Mrs. Kim nodded excitedly.

"I will not sign the marriage license. That's my answer," I sighed, staring straight at my father on the far end of the table. None of them could process my words. Jimin was the first to react when he slowly turned to stare at me with his slightly parted lips. Jungkook then shot me a startled expression. Taehyung gulped while staring blankly at the files. His mind stopped functioning.

"W-what are you talking about?" Eomma stuttered, straightening herself as the elder's mouth dropped open in devastation.

"You heard me. I don't want the marriage," I repeated. My inside was aching in pain as I tried not to look at Taehyung. I have to let him go... I have to. It's for the best.

"You said you'll sign it! Why are you going back on your words?!" Appa snapped, infuriated by my decision.

"I said I'll give you the answer. I never said I'm going to sign it," I shook my head and crossed my arms. As much as I appear to be calm... I'm not... everything is erupting within me... clashing violently into one another.

"This isn't just a game! It's a matter of life and death!" Eomma growled fiercely at me.

"I know. But I refuse the marriage. I will not sign it. Even if I die," I declared. Just then, Taehyung violently trembled as he clutched tightly onto the pen. I turned to find Taehyung glaring furiously... not at me... but at... Jungkook. Veins began forming along his neck and forearms... he was fuming in rage. His glowing red eyes... burning deadly at Jungkook.

"S-So it was your plan all along, and yet you kept us second-guessing your decisions?! I let you off before but not this time! You'll be responsible for your actions-" Eomma's cut short when Taehyung aggressively leaped across the table- towards Jungkook, who sat paralyzed in his seat. Right before Taehyung reached Jungkook, I shot up and grabbed onto his forearms with all my might. Normally... my strength is nothing compared to his, but thanks to the darkness, I was able to counter his force. The elders gawked at us in horror as Taehyung tried to resist me but failed as I held him back. The icy cold hollowness... expanding across my head, down to my chest... seeping into the depth of my soul.

"I made it clear, didn't I? No one can lay a finger on Jeon Jungkook, not even a strand of his hair, and you're no exception," I lowly gritted at Taehyung before averting my eyes to the elders. They're all alarmed by my immense strength against Taehyung.

"Let go of my hand," Taehyung warned, locking his razor-sharp eyes with mine. His pupils... it's filled with hatred... it was so intense I could almost see the raging flames in his eyes. The devil... pounding murderously under his invisible mask. I've fooled myself into believing I can handle his darkness, but I overestimated my capabilities. Our inner demons will never surrender to one another. Even if I choose to let him win, it'll never allow it. We were never meant for each other, not with the uncontrollable evil feasting within our souls. Even if the darkness won't kill us physically, we'll end up ruining one another mentally. The endless cycle of this seesaw game, it'll bring us to our misery. We will become each other's misery if we allow the poisonous love to bloom within our desert.

Throwback: Sora and Jungkook before the meeting.

Afternoon: 4:00 PM

"Your thoughts? Something is bothering you?" I cluelessly examine his... hopeless expression. Jungkook purses his lips for a moment and thought to himself as I waited for a response. Jungkook let out an unsteady breath and looks at me in the eyes. There was so much in his eyes... I can see it... so much he has been holding in. Why didn't I notice it earlier? Was I that oblivious? or is he finally revealing his misery?

"Oh. I've held it in for a while. I was baffled at first, but I've finally found the answer to my confusion. I lived my life full of regrets, so I don't want to be regretful once again, at least not with you," Jungkook gulped while digging his fingernails into his palms.

"Why do you have to make it sound like a death wish. But I get you though. Regret is a wound that'll never heal, and it's something we can't simply neglect, so avoid it if you can. You know I'm here for you," I muttered.

"Temporarily," Jungkook replied.

"Mwo?" I raised my eyebrows at him.

"I thought I had no one until you arrived. Every time I see you, I get these complicated feelings. I was frustrated at first because I couldn't understand the foreign emotions. But as time went by, little by little, everything gradually became less blurry. All of our lost memories and entangled past exposed us to our unconscious attachment," Jungkook continued, still staring at his hands.

"Is this about the marriage? You're the only one I have left, which is why I waited for your return. Just like in the beginning, I want you to be there with me. Through all my rough bumps. I need a reason to live on, and it's you," I bit down on my lips as my eyes filled with tears. My heart... why is it throbbing so much? Wae... why am I getting emotional? Why does it feel like we're exchanging farewells?

"I thought it was just a trivial attachment. I thought I was just lonely, so I brushed it off and overlooked it. I'd comfort myself by saying it's better to let go of you. But it gets tougher the more pain I see in your eyes. I ache to see the sparkle, but every time I look into your eyes... it grows darker. Your happiness could've been an excuse to ease my heartache but no... I only see your tears and misery. The longer I stood on the sideline, the worse my pain got. Only then did I realize it was my fault. Why did I let you suffer? Why did I hope you'd pull through it by yourself when I can clearly see your struggles? Why am I holding myself back? Why am I standing on the sideline when I can be by your side?" Jungkook finally looked up with his tearful eyes. At first, I wanted to tease him about his oddly sweet words but a hot lump formed in my throat when he finished his sentence. It's slowly hitting me.

"You were always by my side. It was me. I rejected your company. It was never your fault," I bit down on my lips when I felt the sadness surging through my chest. Jungkook was always by my side, but I was too oblivious to recognize the obvious answer. The one before my eyes.

"It's not like that. Sora. It's not our friendship. Ah... how do I say it? I- you-... I'm saying there's more to my feelings. Araso. It's too late for me to retreat now, so I'll tell you the truth. I like you. As a friend- a family, yes. But it goes beyond that. I- I like you in a way that makes my heart race and aches at the same time. I like you in a way... I want to hold you in my arms. I like you in a way... that your pain pains me as well. Ani- this is too much for the word 'like'. I thought it was just a mere affection, yet I can't even describe it," Jungkook scoffed as he tried to piece his words together. Suddenly, the ache in my chest subsided as his words filled my empty voids. Instead... I felt this urge... a flaming desire... brewing within my chest.

"Sarang? (Love)," I questioned as I felt this outburst of burning sensation expanding across my chest.

"Oh. Love. That's the word," Jungkook nodded before locking his eyes with mine. Flashes of our earlier memories came rushing into my head... lost love... the kindled first love of our beginning that died out years ago. The one we lost.

"So that's what it is," I unconsciously muttered to myself in realization. Just like a master key, I've accidentally opened all the doors I've been trying to unlock.

"I almost lost you more than I can count because I was too dense. I thought- you'll succeed in finding your happiness. But you only got worse. I could've prevented it, but I didn't. I know I shouldn't abuse our friendship like this. But Sora, I can't stand on the sideline anymore. I'm tired of witnessing your endless pain. And I know... I know you're desperately in need of help. I just need you to reach out to me. Just once, I want to cross over our boundary line-..." Jungkook gulped, struggling to finish his sentence.

"Jungkook...," I whispered while staring at him sadly. I'm speechless... I can't even express my feelings in words.

"Don't leave me. Don't go to him. Once you sign the marriage license... I can no longer protect you from him. Jebal. I know it's not my decision- but please don't leave me. I should've told you earlier before things got complicated, I'm sorry. I'm confessing now because I will definitely regret losing you... and this is my only chance... so don't leave me now," Jungkook pleaded while staring at me with his glassy eyes. I felt like bursting into tears. How did I not realize it sooner? He was right in front of me all these times and yet... I failed to acknowledge him. How did I allow myself to dive this deep into the troubles?

"Jungkook-ah... I- wae- you know this isn't the right-" I was immediately cut off when Jungkook scooted closer to me. He leaned forward to press his chapped lips against mine as I sat stiffly on the bench. His lips... it's so familiar. Suddenly, flashes of rapid memories came flowing into my head. The wine cellar... the way Jungkook gripped onto my waist and pulled me close to him as he brushed his soft lips against mine... the warmth I felt... the memories I failed to remember because we were too drunk. Flash... the night in his room... the way Jungkook hovered over me on the couch... the two of us... heartbroken by our past lovers... and again... we were too drunk to recall our hidden feelings. Flash... under the yolky pole light by the mourning house... our first kiss... the way Jungkook pecked my lips to stop me from sulking. The memories triggered a sudden rush of intense warmness across my chest. The dull stuffiness suddenly subsided from my chest as Jungkook drew his lips away from mine.

You. Jeon Jungkook.

You were always my answer. The answer I've been desperately searching for within the relentless storm of pain and love. Just like you said, you are the cause of my racing heart as well as the intense aches. All this time... I was searching for the familiar sensation in someone else. I unconsciously searched for the wrong person because I was unable to remember the owner. But it has always been you. Jeon Jungkook, you're the cause of my euphoria.

Jungkook gulped and leaned forwards again. Gently caressing his lips against mine while cupping my cheeks. I closed my eyes and responded to him, causing all the familiar warmness to race erratically within my chest.

The person I've been yearning for. The familiarity I've been seeking for. 

I've finally found you. 

And just like that, the two beating hearts finally found their missing pieces. The broken edges fitting right into one another without a single imperfection. The withering soul didn't run dry because of the inflicted pain from the outside source. Instead, it dried out due to the absence of the lost love. The unfortunate first love that was forcefully taken away from the souls before it was given a chance to bloom.

As the two alphas sat on the bench, another unknown presence stood watching them from afar.

Kim Taehyung.

----------------------------------

Hiiiiii! I'm back! How are you? I've missed you! And I'm sorry for the delay! T_T I can't update once per week now but don't worry! I've doubled the length of the chapter to make up for it! The chapter is worth two weeks ahaha! My life has been hectic lately, but it's fine! You guys always cheer me up during my stressful times! Thank you for being my source of strength and energy! This chapter is actually scheduled to be published tomorrow, but I didn't want to keep you waiting! So I've been up all night and now it's 6:15AM, the birds are chirping lmao XD I'll get a good rest after this!

Did you enjoy the chapter? Let me know! I'm very curious hehe! I was really excited to present you the finaly scene XD finally~ Sokook shippers~ is that the ship name? I don't know. I'm not over Somin yet lol.

Guys! Thank you so much! For the endless love and support! I didn't expect some of you to go as far as sharing my stories on your personal social media T_T I was very touched. I'm thankful you tried to promote my stories huehue T_T Thank you for everything! I really mean it when I saw I'm nothing without you guys! Thank you for offering me an opportunity to share my stories hikhik. I am really honored and I will try my best to produce much better content! I love you! Thank you so much! Please take care of yourself! Stay healthy and happy! You're the best! Heartue~ borahae!