Survival Part 3 | The Beginning of the End
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I'm glad to announce, the 2nd part of Survival has ended! Welcome to the third part of Survival! Our journey continues~
I made a short edit for you ^ please check it out! Thank you! And yes, that's my tiktok acc (fan acc) so feel free to follow me! Did u like it? It's not much but i do hope u liked it!
This is this the original ver of the edit: https://youtu.be/D7t_t229LGY
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🔞 DISCLAIMER 🔞
Part 3 of Survival is
❗️RATED MATURE.❗️
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Flashback Bogum's POV
"They're crossing the southbridge," The radio beeped. I uneasily pressed my head against the steering wheel.
"They're heading towards the mall, take them at the intersection," The radio beeped again. I tried to resist it but the stuffiness within my chest grew heavier the longer I waited, so I gripped my fists to suppress the urge to intervene. This is justice. They deserve it. I have to let it go.
"The girl disappeared. Only Kim Taehyung is in sight," The radio beeped again. Sora's hopeless smile suddenly appeared in my head, causing me to clench my jaw in difficulty. I can't help her. The world is unbalanced due to the immense weight of the alpha's power- yet flashes of Sora's upset face showed up in my head again. She doesn't deserve this. I saw it in her eyes.
"Kim Taehyung is too swift, we can't get him!" The radio beeped again, causing me to exhale in relief. My parents died a terrific death because of her, but does that mean she has to face the same fate? I live every second of my life dwelling in the nightmare of my parent's death... continuously feasting on my mind. The pain I feel and the vengeance I thrilled to take... it all changed after I met Sora. She's not the one. She's not the right person to take in the Black Phoenix's wrath. She's innocent.
"Halt and wait for him to lower his guards. Then attack," The radio beeped again. I abruptly sucked in my breath and began sweating anxiously. Exhaling deeply... I leaned back against the seat... tapping my fingers nervously to wait for the next signal. The radio died for 20 minutes, so I sat in my car, paralyzed.... waiting for the next call.
"Target spotted. Kim Taehyung. Everyone on stand-by. He's about to cross the intersection," The radio beeped again, causing my heart to leap in my throat. I stopped breathing and waited quietly for the radio.
"Kim Taehyung down. Report. Kim Taehyung down," The radio beeped again. Sora's safe, but she's alone...
"W-well done. Why don't we wrap it up?" I stuttered, pressing on the radio. I need to avert the attention from her. They should be satisfied with Kim Taehyung since he's one of the supreme alphas.
"Jang Sora. Spotted. She's nearby," The radio beeped again... blood drained from my face. Shit.
"I think we should-"
"This is a good shot. Even god is on our side, permit me to finish her," The radio beeped. Fear loomed over me.
"Uncle, if we finish her too, we'll be risking our identity's security. Killing two supreme alphas will put us all at risk. So why don't we lay low-"
"That's true, Bogum-shi. But keep in mind the supreme alphas are at war with each other right now. If we execute this plan, they will likely blame Kim Seokjin. Not us. What we're about to achieve tonight, will stir up a storm within the alpha's society. They'll be cluelessly squabbling amongst themselves," Uncle's dry voice beeped through the radio. I scoffed in defeat, started my engine, and hastily sped my car down the streets.
"Uncle-"
"Your parents will rest in peace, Bogum-shi," Uncle reminded me through the line. My heart sank at his words. I numbly stared at the road with my fingers gripped tightly around the steering wheel. Anger erupted inside me. It took ten years to plan this attack, and tonight's the night to bring justice to those who suffered under the alpha's reign but... this isn't right.
"Permission granted. Kill her," Uncle ordered. I gripped harder onto the steering wheel, slammed onto the gas pedal, and shot down the street at full speed. I'd risk everything to destroy the alphas cult, but not Sora. She's innocent. The pain's not meant for her.
"Copy. Eliminate her," The radio beeped as I got to the second intersection from the mall. And sure enough, the first intersection of the mall was crowded with people. I briefly glanced to my left to find a red sports car racing through the sidewalks. The car abruptly halted in the middle of the road to block the truck from reaching the supreme alphas.
"Sir- another car-"
"Kill whoever it is. If we get lucky, it'll be another alpha," Uncle ordered ruthlessly. I shakily suck in my breath and averted my eyes to the center of the intersection.
"Copy. We'll hit them in ten seconds, sir. Justice for Park Jihyun," The radio beeped. Without hesitation, I slammed hard onto the gas pedal and shot down the main street. Towards the intersection.
10... 9... 8... 7.... I passed the mall... and was now only a few hundred feet away from the crossroad. Park Jihyun's legacy will stand, and I will see the alphas downfall with my own eyes. But not tonight. 6... 5... 4... I was now perpendicular to the truck and the red car blocking the road. The truck's headlight beamed brightly, so I turned my head... to find Sora's horrified face in the car... time slowed down as I stared at her. Her face was pale... and her eyes were tightly shut in fear as the truck arrived at the center of the intersection.
3... 2... 1...
CRASH.
I slammed hard into the side of the truck. The force of the impact sent me jerking forward violently and everything spun in madness. The airbag exploded into my face, causing me to slam hard into my seat. The seat belt yanked my rib with all its might, causing a sharp pain to spread through my upper chest and head. The window shattered into pieces, so I shielded my face in fright. The car finally stopped moving. I looked up to find my car's hood completely smashed, and smoke was sizzling from it. My ears ringed loudly as I quickly unbuckled my seatbelt, and hastily thrust open the door. I stumbled out of the car in difficulty as a sharp pain stabbed my chest. I have to get out of here. I quickly limped away in pain just as the Black Phoenix's truck bursts into flame.
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Present
Sora's POV
I stood fixedly staring at the dead body with a blank mind. She... died a violent death. Did Jimin do it himself? J-Jimin? He's capable of doing such things...? The aura I sensed at his apartment... it was true...? I thought I knew him... but I really didn't.
"I got the contract back. She wanted to submit my contract to Seokjin and Namjoon- I -I couldn't let it happen," Jimin stuttered as he walked up the stairs with tears in his eyes.
"She wants to be Seokjin's ally?" Taehyung asked, keeping his eye on So-young's grim corpse.
"Y-yeah. She tried to convince me- I refused-" Jimin gulped, averting his eyes to the corpse.
"So... you killed her?" Taehyung sighed, turning to look Jimin.
"Oh. I was trying to manipulate her, but she threatened to submit my contract to Seokjin, so I- I got really pissed and- and- the next thing I knew... she was dead. But it's okay, it was a part of my plan anyways," Jimin whispered, turning to stare at me.
"You planned to kill her?" Taehyung furrowed his eyebrows in confusion.
"She wouldn't have survived anyways. I did it to save Sora-"
"You did not save her. They already issued the announcement. We delayed the appointed time by an hour, but you didn't show up!" Taehyung snapped at Jimin in distress. I couldn't process what I was hearing, so I kept on staring at Jimin with my eyes wide open. He planned to eliminate her to save me? In other words, he murdered So-young for me? What on earth-
"MOH?! NO! B-but I-I-" Jimin suddenly cried in shock... tears filling his eyes.
"It's too late," Taehyung sighed as he ran his hand through his hair. Jimin, on the other hand, began trembling as he turned to stare at me... tears were rolling down his cheeks.
"S-Sora. I'm sorry- please- don't do this to me-" Jimin's whispered in a broken tone. He suddenly grabbed onto my hands with a pleading expression. I didn't know what to do. Pain hammered in my chest as I stood staring at his burning red eyes. I feel guilty. He went too far... too far. He murdered someone.
"Uljima.... come here... sit down," I gently helped Jimin onto a chair by the glass window, so he began bawling at the top of his lungs.
"Ani- wae... WAE? Why would you kill her with your own hands?" Taehyung snapped, turning to glare at Jimin in disbelief. Jimin bit his lower lips and tried to hold in his tears before mumbling something under his breath, but his lip trembled so badly he couldn't even voice his words.
"Taehyung, hajima," I shot him a disapproving look. I quickly knelt down on my knees and reached out to dab away Jimin's tears as he clenched his trembling hands. My heart's aching to see Jimin this broken. He did what he could to save me... but he's a step too late.
"Sora-"
"I know. The engagement will not fall through, but for now. We have to protect Jimin. He did what he could... he's our family," I said cutting Taehyung off as he shot me an uneasy look. Jimin and I, we're over, but our hearts are still attached to one another. As much as it's breaking him, it's breaking me as well.
"S-so- what do you want to do?" Taehyung sighed, averting his eyes to Jimin, who was sobbing with his head hung low as I gripped tightly onto his cold hands.
"We have to get out of here. Whatever happens, we have to protect him," I whispered, turning to stare at Jimin in pain.
"Fine. Let's go. I'll secure the scene. Jimin, you'll have to take charge of the investigation since you're her ally so we can cover up this mess," Taehyung exhaled heavily and strode out of the living room.
"Jimin, Kaja..." I whispered, tugging Jimin onto his feet and dragged him out of the icy cold mansion. I got in the back seat with Jimin as Taehyung started his engine. We fell quiet on our way home. Jimin got really exhausted from crying and ended up falling asleep on my lap. I quietly stared at the brown dried blood covering his entire body and pale face. As much as I hate to admit it, So-young died because of me. I'm responsible for her death because I kept on pressuring Jimin. Sighing, I looked up to find Taehyung eyeing me through the rearview mirror... his dull eyes staring unblinkingly at me.
"Let him adjust to the situation. He's not ready," I whispered quietly, so Taehyung averted his eyes back to the road.
"I left you with him at the apartment," Taehyung said lowly.
"He didn't hurt me," I whispered, pushing Jimin's hair back. Despite being aware of Jimin's sinister darkness... I let love place me at risk by trusting him. I could've met the same fate as So-young that day. It could've been me.
"You don't know what he's capable of," Taehyung sighed, pulling into the mansion.
"We'll keep this between us. We can't let the elders know," I shook my head, ignoring Taehyung's words. Taehyung pressed his tongue against the side of his mouth in discontent, then averted his eyes away in irritation. He doesn't want to help Jimin... wae? I understand they fought, but Jimin has been his friend for years.
I woke Jimin up just as the elders came rushing towards us. Mrs. Park cried in shock when she saw the bloody mess Jimin was in. We announced So-young's death, claiming she was attacked at her deserted mansion, and Jimin found her dead in the living room. Although the elders fell for it, my parents didn't look convinced. The Parks dragged Jimin away to the guest mansion, and he was too exhausted to even argue, so he let them.
"Where are you going?" I asked, turning to stare at Taehyung when he got back onto his jeep.
"To clean up the loose thread," Taehyung said shortly without looking at me before zooming out of the mansion. He's upset... of course, he's upset. I shouldn't be protecting Jimin... I can't even feel the pain anymore... I'm just numb. I requested my parents to secure the crime scene to prevent the other alphas from retrieving any information. Sighing, I slowly made my way down the hallway and was about to reach my room when Jungkook suddenly came striding out. He came back home? Jungkook abruptly froze and stared at me with an empty look... making my chest swell in guilt. I wanted to say something, but he quickly glanced away and coldly walked off. Sighing, I lowered my head hopelessly. Why do I feel like I lost everything?
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I woke up early the next morning because I had to go back to So-young's mansion. I put my hair into a bun, got dressed, and walked out of my room to find Jimin leaning against the wall with a plain expression.
"Are you okay? If you aren't ready, stay here. I'll handle everything," I gulped at Jimin, who slowly turned his head towards me.
"So... this is how I lose you?" Jimin forcefully scoffed, tilting his head upward accompanied by a defeated smile.
"We have to lose something to gain something else," I whispered.
"It's not just something. I lost you," Jimin shook his head and gritted in frustration.
"Park Jimin, I lost you too. I've finally saved all of us, but I lost you," I clenched my jaw to supress the raging pain in my chest.
"I've finally achieved power, it's what I wanted. I wanted So-young's power, and I obtained it. But the consequence? You. I can no longer hold you, even if you're just an arm's length away from me," Jimin bit onto his trembling lips as he turned to look at me with tears shimmering in his eyes. My chest suddenly swelled in pain, so I took an unsteady breath and glanced away just as Taehyung came striding out of his room.
"What are you doing?" Taehyung asked, approaching us as he shot Jimin a disapproving look.
"I'm coming with you guys," Jimin whispered and blinked away his tears.
"Come with us? Do you plan to cause a scene? I can't believe we're risking our lives to save your idiotic act," Taehyung scoffed while grimacing at Jimin.
"Idiotic act...? I did it to make your household powerful, so we can drive Seokjin away!" Jimin snapped, pushing himself off the wall in anger.
"Oh? Are you trying to guilt trip my household-"
"No. I'm not trying to make you feel bad. I knew you wouldn't do it, so I did it myself. I didn't get your hands dirty, did I? It was me who killed her! Wae? Because I thought if I became more powerful- I can contribute to the fight with the two Kims and ease your trouble!" Jimin gritted furiously at Taehyung.
"That's right. You believe I should be grateful for your fucking help. You might've killed the heir, but her parent is still alive!" Taehyung snapped at Jimin, whose face turned pale in realization.
"They can't-"
"So-young's parent is still in their 40s! They can still produce another heir! But you know what? Thanks to your fucking stupidity, I had to eliminate them myself! You claim you didn't get my hands dirty? Well, I killed two people last night because of you!" Taehyung howled angrily at Jimin who grew quiet in shock. He killed- oh... I slowly turned to look at Taehyung, who was breathing heavily. He was fuming in rage. He left the mansion last night to finish off the Ryu...?
"Taehyung!" Jimin called out when he suddenly stomped away from us in anger. But Taehyung suddenly stopped, turned around, and walked back towards us. He grabbed my wrist and pulled me with him. I didn't resist, and let him drag me out of the mansion. I promised to do whatever he wants. He killed So-young's parents for Jimin... and Jimin killed So-young for me... until when will this endless cycle of slaughter ends? Who am I going to kill for?
"Oh, Sora! Are you leaving? I secured the mansion as you insisted," Eomma chirped, walking up towards us with an unfamiliar looking bodyguard right behind her. He's really tall, sharp dragon eyes, and is really buff.
"We're leaving now," I nodded at her.
"Oh yeah. This is my new personal bodyguard. He's going to look out for you and my handsome son in law!" Eomma smiled, patting Taehyung's arm, who looked away uncomfortably.
"Anneonghaseyo. I'm Choi Do Hwan, the specialized head of the security team, and I've mastered-"
"Araso. I really hope you can do your job well. Because every time we're in trouble, not a single security team is available," Taehyung dully scoffed, cutting the guard off. The man fired Taehyung an offended look.
"Sir. I hold a black belt-"
"This is one is very chatty," Taehyung laughed, walking off rudely with an unbothered expression. The guards fell quiet in irritation, so he darted Taehyung an insulted look.
"You say he's your personal bodyguard, so why is he supposed to look out for us?" I asked eomma, who was beaming at the guard. What's so special about him...?
"Trust me. This one is pretty good," Eomma smiled and shrugged at the guard, who was stiffly standing in his position. Shaking my head, I quickly followed Taehyung and got onto his jeep. She's out of her mind. We returned to So-young's mansion and it was heavily patrolled, but there was still a flock of people outside the gate. We got off the jeep and made our way towards the buzzing crowd.
"YAH! I'M THE SUPREME ALPHA! LET ME IN!" Seokjin bellowed, trying to fight his way inside, but the security wouldn't budge.
"What are you doing?" I asked, walking up to Seokjin with my arms crossed. Namjoon quickly snapped his head towards me as if he's seen a ghost. Wae? Why does he look so terrified...?
"Yah... you're crazy! Engagement...? Tsk... Wah~ You're unbelievable jinja," Seokjin scoffed, turning to glare at me.
"I guess you'll have to reconsider your position now," I smiled pridefully at Seokjin before averting my eyes to Namjoon.
"Why are you securing the crime scene? Is there something you want to hide from us Sora-shi?" Namjoon smirked, turning to stare at me with his suspicious eyes. Namjoon and his smart brain. He never fails to pin me in the corner...
"Jimin is pretty devastated by her death. He wants justice for So-young. This is why I'm securing the scene to prevent evidence contamination. We'll investigate her tragic death thoroughly. I'm going to expose whoever tried to disable the Parks and break the supreme alpha's alliance. I wonder who's so desperate to commit such a crime..? At this point, I can't help but suspect you, Seokjin-shi. Was it your idea Namjoonie?" I smiled, turning to stare at the both of them as they exchanged nervous glances.
"Yah! You played dirty! Do you think the engagement alone will guarantee your security? You don't have-"
"Dirty? We played dirty? You tried to blow up Jungkook and tried to run us over with a truck," Taehyung scoffed at Seokjin in disbelief.
"Moh?! Truck?! What truck?! Yah, don't accuse me of such nonsense! What a lame way to eliminate an alpha..." Seokjin snapped, turning to stare at Namjoon in confusion.
"Oh? Someone's denying it. Refuse it all you want, we'll see each other at the meeting today. Until then, you should reconsider your accusation," I chuckled, shaking my head at them and was about to enter the mansion-
"Do you think I'm the only one who wants you dead? Someone tried to run you over with a truck? Yah. I guess there's someone out there who wants you dead as much as I do," Seokjin spat, causing me to stop abruptly.
"But someone saved us the same night. That someone wants me to live," I shot the two Kims a mocking smile and entered the mansion. Taehyung and I, strictly advised the forensic team to clean up the mansion, leaving little to no evidence before transferring her body away to prepare for the funeral.
I later discovered So-young's parents died a few hours after her death. Their completely wrecked car was found at the base of a cliff on the outskirts highway of Seoul. Taehyung must've driven them toward their unfortunate death. I didn't confront Taehyung about it because he's been through enough trouble because of me. We left the mansion after handling So-Young's death and headed to the elite meeting. The entire hall hushed as always at our presence. People eyed us in fear as we made our way up to our seats. I briefly glanced at Taehyung, who had on a straight face. He had to murder the rest of So-young's family because I chose to protect Jimin. Everything points to me in the end. I'm always the problem. However, the guilt I'm feeling is helping me detach myself from Jimin. I'm still in love with Jimin, but I can't continue loving him. Taehyung's doing everything he can to help me live freely, so I'll need to cut off the painful memories of the past.
The middle man came out and began briefing the objectives of today's meeting. I couldn't focus on anything, so my eyes drifted to Jimin. He was sitting sullenly beside Jungkook on the 3rd rank row. He was able to climb higher because he dropped the dead weight off him, and that's me. Before the final negotiation started, the announcer congratulated us on our engagement, causing Seokjin's face to turn red while Namjoon tensed up in his seat.
The Parks were initially in the fourth rank, but they became the 3rd rank alpha overnight because Jimin inherited all of So-young's assets. The entire Ryu family was wiped out, and since Jimin is So-young's only ally, he has the right to claim all her assets after her passing. It was his plan. He initially intended to use her power, but he got greedy. Jimin saw her weakness, so he snatched it from her. He succeeded. Park Jimin obtained his desire, power. Yet, he's sitting with little to no energy... even the bright spark in his eyes was gone. Everything is a give and take. To gain something, you must lose something equally as important. In Jimin's case, he lost love for power. He couldn't protect his love because he was weak, so he seized power and ended up losing me in the process.
"Let the final discussion begin," The man announced, backing away from the spotlight, and the entire hall drop dead silent. Seokjin and Namjoon calmly stared at Taehyung and I. No one uttered a single word.
"Aren't you going to show us your evidence? And claim victory with your bribed votes?" Taehyung exhaled dully... breaking the tension within the room.
"It's all ready, we're just waiting for you to confess. I've changed my mind, admit to it, and I'll reduce the punishment," Seokjin muttered, appearing to be a bit uneasy by Taehyung's confrontation. He's scared...
"Sadly. We're innocent, so we can't really satisfy your false accusation," Taehyung shot back at Seokjin.
"We all know you used the engagement as a shield to abuse the elite justice," Namjoon snarled at us.
"Why are you blaming the engagement? Sora and Taehyung were meant to be together since the beginning. Why else would the two supreme alphas become allies..? Anyways, you're caught red-handed, trying to murder Sora and I. Are you going to deny it?" Jungkook dawdled, crossing his arms firmly over his chest. Namjoon fell quiet and pretended to look down at his files as Seokjin shot us a timid stare.
"I can't believe this. There's clearly something wrong with the Ryu's death! Park Jimin, suddenly becoming the 3rd rank alpha followed by the top supreme alpha's engagement! It's clearly a scheme-"
"Why are you changing the topic? Why do you care about the Ryu's death? I'm the one who's most devastated by her death. Do you think I'm pleased to inherit my dead partner's assets?" Jimin darkly laughed at Seokjin's words.
"Jimin-shi. Are you really sad about her death, or are you upset Sora's engaged to your best friend? What's the exact cause of your sorrow really?" Namjoon smirked at Jimin, whose face turned red. He's flustered.
"Of course, it's So-young's death. We're doing everything in our power to bring her justice," I quickly cut in to stop Jimin from snapping back. He doesn't look well... it's too dangerous. He shouldn't have come to the meeting... we have to get this over with before he explodes.
"Investigation? Do you think I'm stupid?! You cleaned up the goddam mansion in five hours and is prepping her corpse for the funeral! Why are you rushing? There's obviously something wrong here. Are you scared that people will find out you murdered the girl? You saw how naive she was, so you took advantage of it!" Seokjin snapped angrily at us as he balled his hands into a tight fist.
"It's true she's naive. So-young is new to our society with no profound knowledge of the alpha's system. We all knew she wouldn't last. She thought this society functions similarly to the average's. She was fearless and did not know her place in the game. So as expected, she was attacked. And you think we're responsible for her death? Why would we want her assets? We're the supreme alphas with powerful allies. The truth is, someone's afraid she might become our ally after Jimin signed the contract with her," Taehyung grunted, leaning forward with his hands clasped together.
"The culprit will never confess to their crimes, so why don't we all vote? The Ryu's death isn't the topic today, and I don't want to waste my time listening to your chitchat," Yoongi dawdled from the seat below us. Seokjin blinked restlessly before averting his eyes to Namjoon.
"F-Fine," Seokjin stuttered, leaning back uneasily.
"Those in favor of the Jang, please vote blue. And those in favor of the Kims, please vote red," The announcer declared, switching on the large screen to display a giant chart. The entire room buzzed loudly as households began discussing their votes. Seokjin has more support, but the lower ranks are forced to reconsider their decision after the engagement news. Taehyung and I alone possess over 50% of the entire alpha's assets, making us the most powerful ally in the entire society. Voting for Seokjin is like declaring themselves as our enemy.
My heart skips a beat when the red pillar suddenly rose above the blue pillar. They are loyal to Seokjin. I quickly glanced at Seokjin, who was leaning on the desk with his hands clasped together... his eyes trained unblinkingly at the chart. Namjoon, on the other hand, leaned back in his seats with his arms crossed over his chest as he dimly stared at the chart. The red pillar on the screen kept on increasing at a rapid rate, making me feel very restless. Seokjin shot me a sly smile as his vote counts inflated. However, after the first 10 seconds, Seokjin's vote froze at 40%... and to my surprise... the blue pillar began to increase steadily... 20%.... 27%.... 34%... 38%.... 40%... we're now tied. I gulped and quickly glanced around the room when my eyes met Hoseok's. He shot me a reassuring smile. Minah nodded lightly at me as she averted her eyes to the two-pillar.
"It seems like both favors are equivalent. Now, we will reveal the final 20% vote counts of the conference," The announcer exhaled while eyeing the blue and red pillar standing side by side. My heart started racing in fear. What if we lose? I'll be responsible for the other household's downfall! I couldn't bear to look at the chart anymore so I lowered my head anxiously when I felt a firm grip on my right hand, so I quickly looked up to find Taehyung staring at me. He slightly smiled at me and gently squeezed my hand to comfort me. I took in a deep breath, then turned back to the chart.
The red pillar began increasing again... 42%... 44%... 47%... while the blue pillar remained at 40%. Fuck... this is stressful! I exhaled once again and blinked at the chart when the blue pillar suddenly shot up to 53%... 6% higher than the red pillar.
The entire room hushed at the result. At first, I couldn't process the glowing numbers in front of me... did I... did I win? Just a second later, half of the hall erupted into cries of happiness while the other half groaned in defeat. I slowly turned to find Seokjin screwing his red face in frustration while Namjoon pressed his hands against his forehead in defeat.
Our victory forced the Kims to back down, and I felt as if a ton of brick was lifted off my chest. We're safe. It worked. Some of Seokjin's people turned their backs against him because they didn't want to risk their security. Taehyung shot onto his feet and held out his hand with a lively smile. Smiling, I placed my hand on his, so he firmly wrapped his fingers around mine to celebrate our triumph. However, my heart dropped almost immediately when I turned to find Jimin staring blankly at me. Why do I feel so guilty? Why do I feel like this is all my fault? Is it my fault? Tell me... am I doing the right thing because everything feels wrong now.
"Sora, look at me," Taehyung whispered, gently tugging my chin with his fingers, so I was now staring at his dark brown eyes. As much as I feel bad for Jimin... I promised Taehyung. I don't want to hurt him too. Taehyung leaned forward until I felt his soft breath brushing against my face as I kept my eyes locked with his.
"You've got a fallen lash," He smiled, softly brushing it off my lower left eye before pulling away from me and we made our way out of the building. Taehyung and I had to take different rides, so I ended up with Jungkook.
"Ah~" I grumbled as I took off the burning heels. Why do people even wear these? It feels like I'm walking on a piercing blade. Jungkook sideway eyed my feet but didn't say anything. He's a grown-ass man yet he's acting so immature.
"Yah. How long are you going to ignore me?" I questioned, turning to stare at him. He gulped and glanced out the window.
"I'm not ignoring you," Jungkook mumbled, turning to look at me emptily.
"So... you just don't want to talk to me?" I chuckled and shook my head in disbelief.
"It's not that," Jungkook shook his head and bit his lower lips.
"It makes me sad, you know?" I sighed while rubbing my ankles when I felt the hollowness spreading across my chest.
"Sad?" Jungkook scoffed, turning to look at me in disbelief.
"Yeah. I might be romantically in love with Jimin while being engaged to Taehyung... but I feel more connected to you. I don't know why... but it feels like I know you better than anyone else, and you're the only person I can show my downsides to. You just feel so familiar to me... I know we fight a lot, but I don't hate you. I don't know why, but that's how I feel," I admitted with my eyes trained on my hands.
"Don't say stuff like that," Jungkook whispered, pulling his lips into a thin line.
"Wae? I'm just saying, I-"
"Don't! Don't say it!" Jungkook suddenly clenched his fist uneasily, causing me to fall silent.
"Araso," I bit my lips and sadly looked away. What's with him? How bad did Minah break him?
"It's dangerous. Your words are dangerous, you're dangerous," Jungkook exhaled shakily.
"I know, that's why I'm suffering so much," I chuckled lowly... feeling super stuffy. I'm everyone's fear.
"I meant it's dangerous to give false hope!" Jungkook snapped at me in frustration. Huh...?
"Jungkook-"
"That's right. I'm going crazy because of you! So, don't give me hope!" Jungkook gritted, stomping out of the car as soon as we got back to the mansion... leaving me... completely lost in my seat. Maybe I should just keep my mouth shut. Sighing, I pulled the heels back onto my feet and strode off the car. The elders were happily discussing something in front of the mansion, grinning from ear to ear. I turned to the right to find Jimin getting out of the car with a beaten expression. He paused and turned to face me with his hands in his pocket. He took a step forward, and then another one... without realizing my feet began moving as well. We were slowly walking towards each other-
"Sora," Taehyung suddenly appeared between us to block my view of Jimin with his broad shoulders. Jimin disappeared once again as I stared into Taehyung's eyes. This is the reality I have to face. Taehyung is letting down a rope to help me escape the pit... however, my escape depends on me. I can either choose to climb the rope and pull myself out of the darkness or I can refuse to use the rope offered to me, and stay trapped in the pain.
"I see you," I smiled at Taehyung when he slightly tilted his head. He wrapped his arms around my shoulder and dragged me in the opposite direction. I caught a side glimpse of Jimin but I resisted the urge and looked away.
"Come on," Taehyung smiled, steering me towards his jeep.
"Where are we going? It's dark!" I smiled when Taehyung pulled the car door open, placed his hands firmly on my waist, and lifted me onto the passenger seat. He pushed the door shut, then hopped into his seat to start the engine.
"Trust me," Taehyung turned to smile at me before slamming onto the gas pedal.
"Trust you? Taehyung! Your wound isn't even healed yet!" I snapped in disbelief as we raced out of the mansion.
"You're worried about me?" Taehyung chuckled, briefly glancing at me.
"Of course, I am! I'm responsible-"
"Sora. Stop blaming yourself, it'll only hurt you," Taehyung immediately shook his head.
"I can't bury my mistakes-"
"I don't know how your past lovers dealt with your anxiety, but now that you're mine, I will not allow you to break yourself. Not on my watch," Taehyung suddenly gripped onto my hand with one of his hands while keeping the other on the steering wheel. He intertwined his warm fingers with mine and placed it on his lap as we drove up a hill. The roads were very dark and steep, yet Taehyung refuses to let go of my hand. I always felt cold and alone whenever I had a hard time... I tend to keep things to myself because I didn't want to burden anyone... but Taehyung's different... his grip... it's refraining me from blaming myself... for once, I didn't feel cold... I didn't feel lonely... maybe that's how a person is bound to feel when you're holding onto another soul... maybe it's his warmth... maybe it's what I needed... for someone to constantly hold me from dwelling on the past mistakes...? I keep blaming myself for the things I can't control.
"Where are we?" I whispered, glancing around the dark forest surrounding either side of the path when Taehyung suddenly stopped his jeep. He quickly rounded the car and helped me onto the gravel road.
"Be careful," Taehyung whispered, turning on his phone flashlight to illuminate a small path leading towards the edge of the hill. Taehyung held tightly onto my hand as we made our way through the dark forest. Insects' cries echoes throughout the entire hill. Taehyung pushed a few bushes and branches out of our way, and we suddenly came to a stop. A huge flat rock laid along the edge of the cliff... and beyond it is the bright city view. I could clearly see the dim blue residential zone and the bright yellow commercial zone of the city. Taehyung walked over to a small wooden cabinet covered in vines and pulled out a picnic mat before spreading it on the vast stone by the edge.
"Daebak..." I whispered while staring at the stunning scenery in shock. There's a place like this in Seoul?
"Come on," Taehyung smiled, guiding me onto the rock, and we sat down on the mat. He quickly took off his suit and placed it over my exposed legs.
"You might not believe me, but this view... it's very soothing," I exhaled deeply, feeling the weights on my chest fading away as the fresh breezy air brushes softly against my cheeks.
"That's not all. Look up," Taehyung smiled, pointing up at the sky so I tilted my head upward.
"H-How... is this possible?" I gasped while staring at the clear dark sky littered with brightly lit stars. It's been a long time since I've seen such a breathtaking view of the sky.
"Find the brightest star," Taehyung smiled as I continued to look up with my eyes huge open in awe.
"There! The west star- wait! No! The east star is even brighter! Wahh~ it's so pretty!" I gasped at the stars with my mouth hanging open.
"Are you sure it's the brightest?" Taehyung chuckled while glancing around.
"It is the brightest! To be honest I can't really tell but I'm sure the East star is brighter!" I chuckled... squinting my eyes at the stars.
"This one?" Taehyung asked, reaching his hand over me. At first, I thought he was pointing at the stars... but as his hand hovered above my face... my eyes slowly drifted to his finger. He was holding something in his hand... it shimmered brightly... just like the star... a ring. I felt a surge of unexplainable emotion erupting inside my chest. My heart raced so fast- I was unable to speak or react to him.
"Taehyung..." I whispered, slowly turning to find Taehyung smiling at me as he pressed his other hand against the ground.
"The decision was a rush, everything was a rush. You and I, we barely had time to breathe. Usually, the elders are the ones picking out the ornaments for an arranged marriage. But you deserve more than just a randomly picked ring. So I got it for you. And for a second, if you doubt I did it genuinely, you're wrong. I didn't do it out of pity. I didn't do it because it's my duty. I didn't do it because I had no choice. I did it because... this is how I truly feel towards you," Taehyung smiled, dropping his hand to stare at the ring.
"I didn't doubt you. Not once," I muttered while staring right into his eyes. Never, have I doubted Taehyung's feelings towards me. He was the only one to show it, ever since the beginning. And despite my ignorance, he never changed.
"Well... Jang Sora... will you marry me?" Taehyung smiled, getting onto his knees as I sat staring at him. I began tearing up... not because I'm sad... it's the fact that he forgave me for the misery I caused... the mistakes I made... the wounds I gave him. I deserve no one, but here he is... loving me at my worse... loving me at my darkest times... loving all my flaws, and loving my non-existing heart that belongs to another person.
"Are you sure? Won't you regret it? It's not me who you should be asking, it's you. Will you be able to put up with my stupidity for the rest of your life?" I smiled weakly at him.
"I'll pray to survive you," Taehyung chuckled, wiggling his eyebrows to tease me. I stared at his rare boxy smile in silence, then averted my eyes to the ring in his hand. I nodded and placed my left hand towards him. Taehyung slid the ring down my ring finger but suddenly halted.
"Are you okay?" I smiled, waving my hand in front of him.
"I'm in trouble," Taehyung laughed, blinking repeatedly before looking up at me, then pushed the ring all the way.
"You are in deep trouble," I agreed, smiling at him and opened my arms. He leaned over and wrapped his arms around me. I let out a deep sigh of relief and placed my head against his chest as he engulfed me in his arms. Despite my unworthiness to receive his love... I am glad he did everything he could to make me feel worthy. This is it, I'm moving forward. I don't know how long it'll take to heal my broken heart, but it'll work out. If Taehyung can accept my shattered soul, then I can too. I've realized not everything is about me, and that sometimes... it's about others as well. In my case, it's Taehyung. I've gotten myself broken into pieces, but that doesn't mean I should use it as an excuse to break him too.
"You might not feel anything for me now, and that's fine. But I do hope you'll gradually let me into your heart. It might take a while, but we have the rest of our life to accept each other and sort it out," Taehyung smiled, breaking the hug, and stared at me with his affectionate eyes. I used to fear him. His coldness always made me uncomfortable- but he's a completely different person now. Is this the other side of him, or did I get used to him? I don't deserve to see the pure side of him after what I've done.
"I will sort everything out, so don't worry," I nodded, averting my eyes to the view in front of us as Taehyung scooted closer to me. He laid flat on his back, and placed his head on my lap to look up at the stars above us.
"Your problem is also my problem now. Whatever you're going through, I'll be right by your side," He sighed while staring at the stars. I pursed my lips and glanced down at him, so he averted his tender eyes to mine. I softly stroke his hair with my fingers in silence.
"No. The past problem is my problem to fix. I have to resolve it myself. However, the present and future problem is our problem, but in the meantime, I have to clean up my current mess first," I shook my head, then looked down at Taehyung again. He averted his eyes from the stars to me. He didn't say a word but stared unblinkingly at me as the refreshing wind grazed our skins.
"You're right. The East star is the brightest one," Taehyung finally smiled, interlacing his fingers with mine and placed it on his chest as he laid on his back.
"How did you find this place? I mean... how did you discover such a-"
"It's not where you expect a high-rank alpha to propose? Wae? You don't like it? Aish... I should've done better," Taehyung asked, quickly pushing himself into a sitting position.
"Ani! It's perfect. I hate living in the mansions, the city, the society... everything is so suffocating there. I love this place and view," I shook my head at him, then turned to look at the comforting city lights again.
"It's not just you. The majority of the alphas aren't happy either. Sure, we might be filthy rich with a big house, big cars, and big rings, but we lack happiness. To the average, money is their happiness because they think having everything is key but those materialistic things are nothing without happiness. The most expensive meal is set right in front of us, yet we can't even enjoy the rich flavor. We own the most valuable estates yet we're always tirelessly fighting to secure it. We ride the most expensive cars, yet we're all rotting inside. Without happiness... everything is worthless... we can't even enjoy it," Taehyung mumbled while staring down at his hands.
"In the end, we're all yearning for one thing in common, and that's happiness," I sighed, averting my eyes back to the city view.
"This cliff... it's supposed to be the end of me ten years ago. I ventured out of the place I call home and aimlessly walked up the hill. I was trying to find a place to end my misery. So... I thought this is the best place. I was ready to let my life go, but everything changed when I got here. I remember pausing to stare at the view beyond me and gazing up at the stars above me. I felt this... unexplainable calmness... all the pain... all the stuffiness in my chest just disappeared as I stood over the edge. And from that day onward, I kept on returning to the cliff to let it heal me. It keeps me alive. It shuts off the vicious chatter inside my head," Taehyung smiled, sideways glancing at me before turning to smile at the view. I always thought Taehyung was an arrogant person who enjoys his high-rank status, but I was wrong. We're very similar in terms of emotions and mentality... two souls... trapped in a cult... desiring to leave everything behind... lifelessly bouncing around... searching... thirsting for the nonexisting happiness.
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I was completely thrown off by the elder's devotion towards the Engagement Ceremony. They're acting as if I'm getting married or something. The engagement party was only planned for three days, and the elders barely got any sleep. They all had dark circles under their eyes the night before the event. The initial setting of the party was at the famous Gyeongbokgung Palace, but Taehyung immediately shot down the idea because it would definitely cause unnecessary controversies from the public. Everyone will question our identity... who would have such authority to use a famous historical landmark to host their engagement party? People will question the government and put the alpha's society in a difficult position. Even if Taehyung agreed, they'd have to shut down the famous tourist site for at least a week in advance, which is a very bad idea. So I suggested the Min's hotel. The elders didn't quite like it because they wanted a bigger venue. But they ended up agreeing when I argued that it was not appropriate to spoil such events as if it's a Royal Wedding.
After spending hours getting my hair and makeup done by the makeup artist, the stylist finally pulled on an embroidered light pastel pink off-shoulder dress that went all the way to my heels. They did some final touchup on the details before I was allowed to leave the suite. I headed towards the door, but I abruptly stopped to look at my reflection. I can't even recognize myself. They covered the dreadful dark circles under my eyes. They gave volume to my usually messy hair, and they made my skin glow with special bath essence and serum. Despite being mentally numb and soulless, my physical appearance suggests otherwise. To everyone, I am now just a pretty doll with immense power over the society. I quickly pushed open the door to find Do Hwan, my mother's personal bodyguard on standby. He slightly bowed at me, then monitored the hallway with his razor-sharp eyes.
"What are you doing here...? Aren't you suppose to be with my mother?" I asked while staring at him with my eyebrow raised.
"Your mother ordered me to escort you to the hall," He said sternly turning to look at me.
"I can't believe this," I scoffed in disbelief and strode down the hallway. Do Hwan quickly rushed over to click the elevator button for me.
"I can do it myself...," I muttered, sideways eyeing him.
"It's my duty-"
"I said I can do it!" I snapped in irritation when he tried to press the floor button again as we entered. He bit his lips in displease and backed away, so I hastily pressed my figure on the glass panel. The elevator door closed and we elevated towards the upper floors. What's with my parents?! I hate this! I feel like I'm being watched! They aren't doing this to protect me- They want him to spy on me! The elevator finally dinged and slid open. I was greeted by a crowd of alphas in the corridor. Everyone turned to me. I slightly bowed at the elder alphas and forced a smile at them just as Taehyung approached me in his bold black tuxedo and pushed back hair. He smiled and eyed me up and down with his alluring eyes.
"Don't say anything, it'll only make me feel uncomfortable," I shook my head at him, so he smirked and offered me his arm. I linked my arm around him as we strode past the guests and towards the hall.
"You're pretty," Taehyung smiled, keeping his eyes straight forward. I pursed my lips when I felt my cheeks growing warm.
"l told you not to~" I groaned, turning away from him in embarrassment. Taehyung quietly chuckled as we entered the huge venue filled with all ranks of alphas and the lower ranks. The staff bustled around to serve wine and food as people remain seated at their tables.
"Sora honey!" My mother suddenly chirped, rushing up to me with a wine glass in her hand followed by appa. Honey....? Why is she so pretentious.
"Ah... let me get a closer look...," Eomma muttered, tugging me closer toward her to examine my face, hair, and dress. I rolled my eyes at her. I'm tired of this.
"I don't want to be followed," I muttered, sideways glaring at Do hwan, who was observing the hall with his eagle eyes.
"They did well. I'm surprised- and why wouldn't you want to be followed? I'm trying to keep you safe," Eomma smiled, leaning away after inspecting my makeup and dress.
"I can take care of myself," I argued in irritation.
"Seriously, he's worth it. You'll be thankful one day," Eomma smiled, pushing a strand of my hair behind my ear.
"It's about time, the event won't start until you greet the guest," Appa announced just as the Kims came rushing up to us.
"You're such a perfect couple! I'm so happy for both of you!" Mrs. Kim smiled, reaching out to squeeze our hands, grinning from ear to ear. Taehyung and I shyly smiled at her before making our way up the stage. Of course, we had to greet the guest and give our welcoming speech. I've been suppressing my urge for days ever since Taehyung proposed, and I did it well until I was on stage, and all eyes fell on me. Everything erupted within me when reality slammed right in my face. Unconsciously... my eyes drifted off to the person sitting at the front table by the stage. Jimin. I felt a hot lump in my throat when I found him leaning against his chair with his arm crossed over his chest... staring blankly at me. I wanted to give up everything the moment our eyes met. My chest swelled, and I felt really uneasy... Argh!- Suddenly, Taehyung's warm hand slid into mine. All the heavy feelings immediately flushed away as soon as I turned to look at Taehyung, who was reassuringly smiling at me. And once again, I felt at ease... maybe... it's working....?
"YAAAAAH!" Someone roared loudly bursting into the hall, startling everyone. The guards quickly rushed towards the intruder to stop him but they all backed away when they recognized him. The entire hall erupted in confusion and everyone turned to look at... Seokjin.
"What the fuck is wrong with him?" Taehyung gritted while glaring at Seokjin, who was shoving people out of his way as he stormed towards us. The guards tried to stop him, but of course, they couldn't since he's the supreme alpha. Seokjin's face was fuming red in rage as he marched up to us with his fist clenched. He seemed very upset... is it because of the engagement? Ani... that doesn't make sense. He's overreacting. Seokjin managed to reach the end of the stage when Do Hwan suddenly placed his hand out to stop Seokjin from reaching us.
"Get out of my way!" Seokjin roared at the top of his lungs.
"I'm afraid, I can't do that," Do Hwan sternly stared at Seokjin.
"Do you know who-"
"Of course. But it is not an excuse to let you threaten the supreme alphas. I believe you're disrupting the event, and in respect to your status, I will kindly ask you to please leave now, or I will have to forcefully escort-"
CRASH
The entire room gasped in shock when Seokjin suddenly yanked a wine bottle off the table and hurled it straight at Do Hwan's head. The wine bottle shattered into pieces. I gasped and averted my eyes to find blood trickling down Do Hwan's forehead, yet he stood his ground and kept on a straight face... refusing to let Seokjin pass him. Is he even human? How did he survive that blast in the head? He's bleeding all over his suit... oddly... he looks as if he didn't feel any of the pain. Seokjin stood staring at Do Hwan with his eyes wide open in fury while he held onto the broken tip of the bottle.
"ARGHHHHH!" Seokjin bellowed, fiercely raising the sharp broken tip at Do-hwan in anger, and that's when I saw the dark energy surrounding Seokjin. Unlike the other alphas, his aura... it was like the raging fire of hell... an unforgiving wrath... veins formed across his forehead... and his eyes... it was burning in pure hatred. I don't know what happened... but Seokjin looks very devastated. He lost something. And he's furious about it.
The question is, what was taken away from him...?
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Hello! I'm really sorry to keep you all waiting for this long! T_T I got really sick so i couldn't write T_T I should've taken better care of myself! I'm sorry! I am stupid, I know T_T I feel really bad right now, so forgive me T_T
Did you enjoy it? I hope you did ><
Thank you for your patience ^^ I am very grateful for your continues support!
Survival will go on T_T tho, this is the final part of the story. We've came a long way together, so I will make sure to end this story well! It's not the end yet! There's still a long way to go so hang on! But the end is approaching ><
I love you so much! Please have a blessing life! Stay healthy and be happy!
Author-nim is really thankful for your support! Borahae!