21

Chapter 18

Yuna stood outside the kitchen, quietly observing the scene in front of her. Jungkook was busy cooking for everyone, his movements confident and focused, while Jiwoon sat on the counter, admiring him with a look of pure affection. Yuna smiled to herself—she could clearly see that both of them were in love. It wasn’t just the way Jiwoon’s eyes followed Jungkook, but the way her entire demeanor had changed since he entered her life. Jiwoon had always been guarded, letting very few people in. After her mother's death, she had only allowed Sarang and Yuna to get close, but now there was something special about Jungkook, something that allowed Jiwoon to finally let her walls down.

Yuna sighed contentedly. She was genuinely happy for Jiwoon, who deserved every bit of this peace. For the longest time, Jiwoon had carried the weight of her grief and loss, but now she seemed lighter, freer. The day Jungkook had first entered the café, there had been a noticeable change in Jiwoon—a glow that Yuna hadn't seen in years. Jiwoon was happy, and Yuna knew that it was because of Jungkook.

Yuna made a silent promise to herself: no matter what, she would stand by Jiwoon. She would support her in every way, especially now that Jiwoon was on the verge of something beautiful. She couldn’t wait for the day Jungkook and Jiwoon finally confessed to each other. She knew it was only a matter of time.

Lost in her thoughts, Yuna didn’t notice Jimin approaching until he wrapped his arms around her waist from behind, pulling her close. His lips brushed against her neck as he whispered, "Don’t worry, love. They’ll end up together. I can see it—just like how we found our way to each other."

Yuna turned in his arms, resting her hands on his chest as she met his eyes. "You really think so?" she asked softly, her smile growing and her voice filled with hope.

Jimin cupped her face, his thumb gently brushing her cheek before placing a light kiss on her lips . "I know so. Just like we're standing here together, they'll find their way too.”

Yuna chuckled, feeling warmth spread through her. She leaned in, resting her head on his chest for a moment, letting the comfort of his embrace soothe her thoughts.

Jimin nodded, his eyes filled with certainty. "I do. Jiwoon deserves this happiness, and so does Jungkook. They’re good for each other, just like you and me." He leaned in, kissing her forehead tenderly. Jimin said "Now, let’s go check the poolside area again. We should make sure everything is set "

Yuna chuckled softly, and wrapped her arms around Jimin's neck. "Alright, let's go," she said with a lighthearted smile, her eyes again glancing toward the kitchen where Jiwoon and Jungkook were, already envisioning the happiness that awaited them.

Jimin pressed another kiss to her temple before taking her hand, leading her toward the poolside. As they walked together, Yuna’s heart was full—not just for herself and Jimin, but for Jiwoon too. The future suddenly felt brighter for all

of them.

Meanwhile

Sarang’s POV

The room is warm with the late afternoon light spilling through the large windows, casting a golden hue over everything. It’s peaceful, the kind of peace Sarang hasn’t felt in a long time. Her eyes follow Taehyung, who is sitting on the floor with Jihan in his lap, both of them absorbed in their little world. The soft giggles of Jihan, and the way Taehyung gently bounces him, make Sarang’s heart feel light, yet there’s something deeper, something unspoken stirring within her.

Why does he seem so perfect? Sarang thinks to herself, unable to tear her gaze away. Taehyung, with his dark, silky hair falling slightly into his eyes, looks so natural with Jihan in his arms. There’s a tenderness to his movements, a patience she didn’t expect. It’s like he was born for moments like these.

Jihan reaches for Taehyung’s face, his tiny hands grasping at his nose. Taehyung chuckles, holding the little hands and pressing a soft kiss to them. “You like playing with my face, huh, buddy?” His voice is low and warm, filled with affection that makes Sarang’s chest tighten.

You like that, huh?” Taehyung’s voice is a low murmur as he lifts Jihan into the air, holding him carefully above his head. The baby squeals in delight, kicking his little legs, his chubby hands reaching for Taehyung’s face. “You're so strong, little man.”

Sarang sits on the bed, her back against the headboard, watching them silently. There’s something about him… She catches herself wondering if this is what it would’ve been like if things had been different. If life had been kinder. Her thoughts wander to how lucky any woman would be to have Taehyung’s love, to share this kind of warmth with him.

Taehyung’s laughter draws her back. He’s smiling at Jihan, his eyes crinkling at the corners, looking completely at ease. For a moment, Sarang wonders how it’s possible for someone to be so beautiful, not just in the way he looks, but in the way he is. There’s a quiet strength in him, something comforting.

Jihan reaches out toward her suddenly, babbling something in his baby language. Taehyung turns his head and smiles at her, the kind of smile that feels like sunshine on a cold day. “I think he wants his mom.”

Sarang chuckles softly and shakes her head. “I think he just likes being with you.”

Taehyung stands, gently bouncing Jihan in his arms as he walks over to her. His movements are careful, as if he’s always thinking about the little one’s comfort. He sits on the edge of the bed, still holding Jihan, and their shoulders are almost touching. The closeness makes Sarang’s heart skip a beat.

“Jihan likes you,” Sarang says quietly, her eyes on her son. “There’s something special between you two.”

Taehyung looks down at Jihan, his expression softening even more. “Maybe it’s because I love him too.” He pauses, his gaze shifting to meet hers. “He reminds me of… everything I want. A family. A future.”

Sarang’s breath catches in her throat. A family. She had forgotten what it felt like to dream of that, but hearing Taehyung say it so easily makes something stir inside her. She doesn’t say anything, though. She just watches as Taehyung gently rocks Jihan, who is slowly falling asleep.

After a few moments of silence, Sarang speaks again, her voice softer this time. “Whoever you love, Taehyung… she’ll be very lucky.” She turns her head to look at him, their eyes meeting. “You’ll make a great father someday.”

Taehyung’s eyes linger on hers for a second longer than usual, something unreadable passing between them. Then, he smiles, a little shyly, as if her words meant more than she could understand. “Maybe,” he whispers, his voice barely audible, “but right now, I just want to make sure you and Jihan are safe and happy.”

Sarang doesn’t know what to say. There’s a warmth spreading through her chest, a feeling of being understood, of being cared for. And in that moment, she silently wishes for his happiness, for Taehyung to find the love and peace he deserves.

As Sarang and Taehyung walk into the spacious living hall, the warmth of the scene before them brings a smile to her face. Yuna, Jimin, Jungkook, and Jiwoon are at the dining table, setting plates and utensils while laughing and teasing each other. The air is filled with lightheartedness, the kind of laughter that feels like home. Yeontan, Taehyung’s tiny Pomeranian, runs happily across the open space, his paws tapping softly against the hardwood floor.

“This feels… perfect,” Sarang whispers to Taehyung, her voice filled with a contentment she hadn’t felt in a long time. She looks around the house—the high ceilings, the large windows letting in natural light, the modern yet cozy design. Everything feels just right. This is the kind of place Jihan and I need.

But then, a flicker of worry crosses her mind. As much as she loves this house, she can’t shake her concerns about the rent. She looks up at Taehyung, who’s watching the others with a soft smile. “I love this house, Taehyung. It’s beautiful, but…” She hesitates, biting her lip before continuing. “J-Hope is charging me such a low amount for the rent. I mean, compared to what this house is worth… it feels unfair.”

Hearing this, Taehyung’s heart clenches. He knew Sarang would never accept the house if she knew the truth—that it’s actually his own. So, he, Jimin, and J-Hope had come up with a plan to make it seem like J-Hope was the landlord, keeping the rent low to ease her mind. He glances at her, wanting to tell her everything, but he knows Sarang too well. She’s too proud to accept charity, even if it’s from him.

Breaking the silence, Taehyung clears his throat, his voice steady but soft. “Sarang, there’s something you should know about J-Hope and this house.” He pauses, choosing his words carefully. “This place… it’s very special to him. It belonged to his family, and he never wanted to sell it. But when Jimin told him about your situation, about how you all needed a house, J-Hope didn’t even hesitate. He agreed immediately to rent it out.”

Sarang listens closely, her brow furrowed in concern. “But why is he charging so little? It doesn’t seem right for a house like this.”

Taehyung chuckles softly, shaking his head. “That’s J-Hope for you. He wouldn’t take rent at all if he could help it. He’s a good friend, and to him, family is everything. After half an hour of debating with Jimin, they finally agreed on this small amount.” He smiles reassuringly. “So, don’t worry. J-Hope knows what he’s doing. You’re not taking advantage of anyone.”

Sarang sighs, still feeling a little uncertain. “I just don’t want to feel like I’m burdening anyone. I’ve always managed things on my own.”

Taehyung steps closer to her, placing a gentle hand on her arm. “You’re not burdening anyone, Sarang. In fact, everyone is just happy to help you, especially J-Hope. He feels good knowing this house is being taken care of by people who matter.” His voice softens even more. “And you matter to all of us.”

Sarang feels a warmth spreading through her chest at his words. She looks up at him, and for a moment, their eyes meet, something unspoken passing between them. She knows he means what he says, but a part of her still feels hesitant.

“Thank you, Taehyung,” she whispers, smiling softly. “I guess I just have to get used to people caring.”

Taehyung gives her a warm, reassuring look. “You don’t have to do everything alone anymore, Sarang. We’re all here for you.” He glances over at Jimin and the others, who are still busy laughing and arranging the table. “And now that everything’s settled, why don’t we join them for dinner?”

Sarang nods, feeling lighter than she has in a long time. “Yeah, let’s go.”

They walk over to the dining table, where Yuna calls out cheerfully, “Took you two long enough! We’re almost done setting the table!”

Jungkook grins, motioning for them to sit. “Better hurry up before Jiwoon takes all the credit for helping.” He winks at Jiwoon, who rolls her eyes with a laugh.

Jimin, already seated, glances at Taehyung and raises an eyebrow. “So, did you two sort everything out? No more worrying?”

Taehyung smiles, glancing at Sarang. “Yeah, everything’s settled.”

Sarang, feeling the comfort of this new chapter, looks around the room once more. For the first time in a long while, she feels at peace, surrounded by people who genuinely care. And for now, that’s more than enough.

Suddenly, the front door swings open, and J-Hope bursts in with a wide grin, holding up several tubs of ice cream. “Ice cream delivery, people!” he announces loudly, drawing everyone’s attention.

The room erupts in laughter and cheers as they all turn toward him.

“Finally! Something sweet to go with Jungkook’s amazing dinner,” Jimin calls out, as he and Yuna help Jiwoon and Jungkook set the table. They’ve arranged the dishes neatly, the table looking inviting with colorful plates and steaming bowls of food.

Yuna smiles as she passes out the cutlery. “You outdid yourself, Jungkook. This looks amazing.”

Jiwoon, still a little flustered from watching Jungkook cook, nods in agreement. “Yeah, it smells incredible. You’ve got some serious skills.”

Jungkook shrugs modestly, but there’s a hint of pride in his eyes. “I hope it tastes as good as it looks.”

They all gather around the table, settling into their seats. Taehyung gently places Jihan in his baby seat next to Sarang, who reaches over to stroke the little boy’s hair. As they begin to eat, the room is filled with the clatter of forks and the hum of happy conversation.

J-Hope breaks the moment with a dramatic sigh after taking his first bite. “Okay, Jungkook, this is officially the best meal I’ve had all month. You’ve set the bar way too high, man.”

Everyone laughs, and Jungkook waves him off. “It’s just basic stuff. But I’m glad you all like it.”

Sarang smiles softly as she watches the group. The warmth, the joy, the love that fills the room—it’s moments like this that remind her of what really matters. Taehyung catches her eye from across the table and offers her a small, knowing smile. Sarang’s heart skips a beat. He doesn’t need to say anything; the connection between them is as strong as ever.

As the night continues, they share stories, jokes, and memories, the ice cream brought by J-Hope melting into a sweet finish for the evening. Time seems to slow do

wn, and in this little corner of the world, surrounded by friends and family, everything feels just right.

To be continued ..

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