In Another Life

Do Hwan firmly grabbed onto Seokjin's upper arm without hesitation, and roughly twisted it, causing Seokjin to wince in pain. The broken bottle dropped from his hand and shattered on the floor. Do Hwan suddenly turned Seokjin around, pressed Seokjin's arm against his back, and held firmly onto his shoulder to stop him from resisting.

"What do you think you're doing?! Do you have a death wish?!" Seokjin howled, trying to free himself, but Dohwan only tightened his grasp, making Seokjin screw his face in pain. Taehyung angrily stomped off the stage with his fist clenched tightly, but before he could reach Seokjin. I grab onto Taehyung's wrist to hold him back. He turned to look at me unsurely, so I shook my head at him. From the look on his face- I knew he wanted to destroy Seokjin, but there were too many prying eyes watching us at the moment.

"We shouldn't let him ruin the ceremony," I calmly smiled at Taehyung before turning to Seokjin, who was fiercely glaring at me as Do Hwan restrained him in place.

"Do hwan. Let him go. He's a supreme alpha, don't disrespect him," I demanded while staring at Seokjin with a straight face. However, Do Hwan didn't budge. He fired me a dumbfounded expression. Wah... he's really stubborn. I fired him a warning look in response. Do Hwan gritted his jaw in displease and hastily released Seokjin, who lowly groaned in pain as he gripped onto his upper right arm in discomfort.

"Why don't we talk outside?" I asked while staring blankly at him.

"No-"

"I thought you were very conscious about your image. Everyone's watching right now, do you want to ruin your own reputation?" I cut him off and nodded at the gawking eyes. Seokjin gulped uneasily as he turned to scan the hushed hall.

"Fine," Seokjin flared his nose in defeat and made his way out of the hall.

"Sora-" Taehyung suddenly grabbed onto my upper arm.

"I'll sort it out. Why don't you deliver the speech? We need to divert the attention. I'll be right back," I said leaning in to kiss him softly on his cheek. He stood staring at me in shock, caught off guard by my sudden action. Before he could say anything else, I quickly shot the audience a bright smile and went out after Seokjin. Do-hwan followed me out of the hall as Taehyung made his way up the stage to greet the guests. We quietly walked down the hallway and entered the royal lounge. All the staff immediately evacuated the room upon our arrival.

"What's the reason behind your intrusion?" I asked with my arms folded. Seokjin gulped down a glass of champagne to calm his nerves, so I patiently waited for his response.

"You know exactly why," Seokjin scoffed, turning to face me with a spiteful glare.

"I really don't," I said shortly tilting my head at him.

"If it isn't you, then who would dare attack Namjoon? Hmm? Tell me," Seokjin snarled, sharply glaring up at me. Namjoon? What happened to him?

"Whatever happened to him, it wasn't me," I shook my head at Seokjin cluelessly.

"YAH!" Seokjin roared, shooting up from his seat, and angrily walked up to me, so I took a step back until I felt my back pressing against the wall as he inched his murderous face towards mine. Do Hwan quickly rushed towards me, but I raised my hand to halt him.

"I wish I knew what happened, but it wasn't me. You think everyone wants me dead? You're wrong. You should really watch your back. You're in as much danger as I am," I replied, locking my cold eyes with his.

"The engagement might've temporarily saved you, but not for long. Don't be too hopeful," Seokjin gritted darkly and stomped out of the lounge before I could even respond. Namjoon must've gotten hurt... it really wasn't me... so who did it? And why? Snapping out of my thoughts, I turned to find Do Hwan standing stiffly with his wounded head.

"Are you not going to get it treated?" I sighed, walking towards the exit to request a first aid kit. He's hurt because of me...

"I'm fine," Do Hwan said shortly. I rolled my eyes at him and sat down on the couch. To my surprise, a staff came rushing in with a nurse instead of a first aid kit.

"Sit down, let her treat you," I nodded at the nurse, who politely bowed at me in fear. Do Hwan briefly glanced at me but refused to budge.

"Are you sure you're my bodyguard? You don't even listen to me," I chuckled in disbelief.

"I'm fine. It's unnecessary-"

"At least clean up the blood. Do you think it's appropriate to walk around with that bloody wound? Do you plan on embarrassing my parents?" I shot him a disapproving glare, so he let out a heavy sigh and finally sat down on the opposite couch. The nurse quickly opened the kit and began cleaning his wound. Do Hwan didn't flinch, he sat stiffly like a solid rock. I see why eomma favors him now. I left the suite and headed back inside the hall.

"Are you okay?" Taehyung rushed up to me with a concerned expression.

"I'm fine. He left. What happened to Namjoon?" I reassured Taehyung, who was still eyeing me suspiciously.

"Namjoon? Moh? I don't know, I've been busy with our engagement-"

"He was attacked at a public library while studying," Minah muttered, walking up to us in a red v-cut dress, followed by Hoseok, Minho, and Mira. Taehyung is clueless too...

"When? and why?" I turned to them in surprise. Could it be one of them...?

"This afternoon. I heard he was attacked in the library's bathroom. The attacker plunged a dagger into the side of his rib when he was washing his hands. Namjoon got hurt pretty bad, but he was swift and fought back, so the attacker fled," Minho smirked at me. What's with the look...

"You didn't know? We thought it was you," Mira chirped at me in surprise. Me? They think I'm responsible?

"So that's why Seokjin crashed the ceremony like a madman," Hoseok chuckled in disbelief.

"If it wasn't Sora or Taehyung. Then who would dare hurt Namjoon?" Minah muttered, thinking hard to herself. It could be any one of them... but who is it...?

"Taehyung-ah! Sora! We need you!" Mrs. Kim suddenly called out, beckoning us over.

"Enjoy yourself," I quickly nodded at the alphas.

"You look gorgeous by the way," Minah complimented, wrapping her arms around Hoseok's arm.

"Agreed," Minho and Hoseok beamed at me, so their girlfriends darted them an irritated glare.

"Taehyung, you look hot," Mira smirked at Taehyung, causing Minho to snap his head towards her in disbelief. I shook my head at the couple before walking off with Taehyung. The elders made us greet the government officials, the president himself, and many other foreign investors we didn't know. They were gathered in a line, waiting to speak to us. They seem to fear our parents. This is how powerful we are huh...? Crash. We heard something breaking from the front table, so I quickly turned to find someone struggling at the table. The elders looked concerned, but they were stuck in the middle of a conversation with the guests.

"Excuse us," I smiled, walking away from the guests and towards the front table to find a wine glass shattered across the floor as the staff hurriedly cleaned up the mess. Jungkook was wrestling Jimin... who was drunkenly clutching onto a bottle of wine in his arm. He swayed back and forth before stumbling into a nearby table, causing the guests to yelp in surprise. Jungkook quickly pulled Jimin back and tried to stabilize him.

"Aish..." Taehyung mumbled, walking up to Jimin, who was chugging down the wine. Taehyung made a few guards guide Jimin out of the hall. He could barely walk, so Jungkook and the guards had to secure him on the way out. We followed them and poured into the royal lounge. Jungkook snatched the half-empty bottle away from Jimin, who collapsed onto the couch. He grumbled and pressed his red face into the cushions.

"Get him hangover soup," Taehyung ordered, so one of the hotel's butlers hurriedly raced out of the suite.

"Arghhh!" Jimin suddenly screamed, pounding his hand on the couch repeatedly as tears glided down his cheeks. Pain shot across my chest as I stood watching him whimper in distress. As much as I wanted to comfort him... I couldn't.

"Put out the scented candles," I ordered the staff.

"The soothing scent can ease-"

"Put it all out. He doesn't like the candle scent. It'll only irritate him," I said sternly walking over to blow out the candle on the table beside Jimin. The staff quickly bowed and rushed to blow out the rest of the candles. I turned to find Taehyung staring at me with a disapproving look.

"I never knew he doesn't like scented candles despite being his friend for years," Taehyung scoffed, turning to stare at Jimin enviously. It's hard... when you romantically fall for a person. You unconsciously remember their likes and dislikes... and it stays with you. Taehyung isn't pleased with it.

"He's been drinking nonstop. I tried to stop him," Jungkook murmured, slumping down onto an armchair with his hands pressed against his face in exhaustion. I gulped and turned to stare apologetically at Taehyung, who was pressing his tongue against the side of his cheek with an upset expression.

"Comfort him, I'll head back to the hall," Taehyung sourly looked at me before striding out of the lounge. He's upset again... aish... this is giving me a headache. Sighing, I sat on the edge of the couch and undid Jimin's loose tie so he could breathe properly. I pushed back his hair and softly dabbed his sweaty forehead with a soaked towel.

"Taehyung's only being generous because Jimin's his best friend," Jungkook grumbled, staring gloomily at me from the armchair.

"I know," I whispered, dabbing the towel on Jimin's burning cheeks. Jimin suddenly grunted in discomfort as tears flowed out of his closed eyes. He's asleep... yet he's still hurting. I reached over to rub away his tears as Jimin softly wept in discomfort, making my heart wrench in pain.

"You should turn your back on Jimin. It'll be extremely painful, but it'll heal a lot quicker. He'll never let go if you keep on fulfilling his needs," Jungkook blankly stared at me when Jimin suddenly grabbed onto my hand and began sobbing again. I wrapped my hand around his cold hands, then placed my other hand on the side of his cheek to comfort him. In response to my embrace, Jimin calmly snuggled against my touch and sniffled quietly.

"I'm only doing this because he's drunk. He won't remember anything once he wakes up," I muttered while staring at Jimin's puffy eyes. He exhaled in relief... steadily breathing with his fists clenched.

"He won't remember, but you will. The memories will stay with you, and it will tear you. What if it's an excuse?" Jungkook asked, gloomily staring at our hands.

"What do you mean?" I asked, turning to look at Jungkook.

"The comfort you give to each other. You'll keep on doing it unconsciously. Sure, it'll temporarily ease your pain, but what if it continues? The more you can't have something, the more you crave for it, the greedier you get. In the end, you'll end up walking in the same endless cycle. You'll only fall deeper, and eventually... you won't be able to pull yourself out of the whirlpool. The excuse might be 'comfort'. But in reality, you just don't want to let go, and it'll only get complicated. The pain will kill you," Jungkook exhaled, averting his empty eyes to mine. I fell silent and thought hard. He's right. I can't counter him... I know I'm walking in the wrong direction... escaping through the wrong path and holding on to the wrong person... it's hard. I keep telling myself to look forward and be happy, but my heart's always heavy... my body's always weak... and my soul's always restless.

_____________________________

The engagement sustained our household strength, and it even brought us a tremendous amount of support from the lower ranks. I confronted my parents about Namjoon's attack, to check if they were somehow responsible for it, but they looked at me as if I was crazy. Why did I even ask? They've been busy organizing the engagement ceremony. Who could it be? And what's the motive behind the attack? There's one person I haven't asked, and it's Taehyung. He wasn't even surprised when he heard the news, and he's been brushing it off. We both collapsed in exhaustion after the ceremony, so I didn't have time to talk to him. I walked out of my room, ready to leave the mansion for the university. Taehyung was in the garage, fixing something under his jeep's hood with his sleeves rolled up. He wore a gray hairband around his head to keep his hair from blocking his sight...

"Oh. You're up," Taehyung briefly glanced at me as he leaned over the engine and reached into it. I felt bad about what happened during the ceremony night, so I was a bit nervous to talk to him.

"Are you upset?" I asked quietly leaning against Jungkook's Mercedes which was parked right beside Taehyung's jeep.

"Upset?" He asked without looking at me as he continued to fix the engine.

"The ceremony night... I-"

"Sora..." Taehyung paused, turning to look at me with his usual dull eyes.

"I know, I'm sorry-"

"I'm not upset, don't overthink. I told you, I'll help you ease your pain, and I am trusting you to grab onto my hands," Taehyung said quietly, softening his eyes at me.

"Just give me a little more time. I promise I won't be a burden anymore," I bit my lips as my eyes slowly drifted off to the black smudge on his upper right cheekbone.

"I trust you- what are you doing? I'm dirty- don't touch me," Taehyung pulled his hands away in panic when I reached out for him.

"You've got something on your face," I smiled, rubbing the smudge off with my thumb. He stood staring at me unblinkingly... startled by my stroke on his face.

"Place your hand on my chest," Taehyung muttered while staring right into my eyes. What?

"Wae?" I asked in confusion when he took a step closer, causing my cheeks to warm up.

"Do it," Taehyung insisted, stubbornly staring at me, so I carefully placed it on his upper left chest as he stood gazing at me. At first, I didn't know what was going on, but then I felt it. His heartbeat was racing like crazy... as if he just completed a marathon. He should be panting from it... but he isn't... despite his racing heart... Taehyung's completely calm.

"Can you feel it? It's been like this for a while now, and you're the reason why. As much as my heart pounds for you- I hope one day... I'll be the reason behind your racing heart as well... but until then... my heart will continue to hopelessly beat for you," Taehyung spoke in a low tone as he stared right at me. He's very transparent with his feelings.

"You're so cheesy!" I giggled, pushing him playfully. Taehyung softly chuckled and turned back to his engine.

"I'm serious," Taehyung smiled, turning to look at me as he repaired the engine. I like that he's straightforward with his emotions.

"You flustered me," I grinned at him as I felt my warm cheeks.

"It's only the beginning," Taehyung winked at me, so I shyly glanced away. Why is he like this? I never knew he could be so flirty!

"You're pretty good at it. Your face is already lethal... but your words? Combine the two, and no one will be able to resist you," I nodded in agreement as he grinned at me.

"I've never used it with anyone. Although I have a soft spot for you... from now on, I won't go easy on you anymore," Taehyung smirked, slyly eyeing me. God... I'm so flustered- I can't even look at him in the eyes.

"Oh. I have a question. Were you aware of Namjoon's attack?" I asked, changing the topic.

"A stab at the side of his rib, barely missing his lungs," Taehyung nodded in disinterest.

"Yeah. He's still alive. I guess he's one of god's favorites," I nodded, curiously chewing on my lips while I examined him. Taehyung... he didn't exactly answer me-

"It's not me if you're wondering. I have no idea who it is either. No motives, which makes it very dangerous. We have to be on our guard as well," Taehyung sighed and slammed the hood close before wiping his dirty hands with a towel.

"It'll keep Seokjin at bay for a while since he's being threatened not just by us, but also by an unknown opponent. It could be one of his allies... who knows," I shrugged.

"No. It's very suspicious. We shouldn't take it lightly. Whoever did it might do it to satisfy their personal resentment, or they're using us as a scapegoat. Everyone thinks we're responsible for it because of the engagement. Maybe that's the motive, so we have to be extremely careful. Don't trust anyone," Taehyung stared at me dead in the eyes.

"I know," I nodded quietly. This is what I mean when I say Taehyung's wisdom is very mature. I only perceive Namjoon's attack as a positive coincidence... but Taehyung is ten steps ahead. He's right... this might be a scheme to break us.

"The situation is even more dangerous now. So take self-defense and Taekwondo classes with Jungkook. He'll help you," Taehyung muttered, turning to me just as someone walked into the parking lot.

"Isn't it your duty to protect her? How can you even love her if you can't even protect her," Jimin snarled at Taehyung as he got into a black Koenigsegg. Taehyung suddenly gritted his teeth and angrily stomped up to Jimin, but I caught his arm and shook my head disapprovingly. Taehyung quickly snapped his head at me... fuming in irritation as Jimin drove out of the parking lot.

"Leave him be. It's the only way to ease his misery," I shook my head as Taehyung continued to glare at the car leaving the mansion.

"Sora. I'm not doing this because I can't protect you. I won't be with you all the time- I just want you to be safe. At least you can protect yourself until I reach you," Taehyung sighed, turning to look at me with an anxious expression.

"I know. Don't worry. Why are you getting worked up? I understand. I'm only alive because I've been receiving help from you and the others. I can't always rely on luck. I'll need to become stronger physically to defend myself," I nodded, giving Taehyung a reassuring squeeze. He licked his dry lip unsurely and stared at me with his temped eyes.

"Are you going to keep on staring? We're late for class," I continued, lightly smacking his upper arm, causing him to break into a soft smile.

"Araso. I'll wash up real quick," Taehyung nodded and walked into the mansion. I waited for him by the garden until he was ready. We left together and headed to the university. A lot of the lower ranks greeted us and congratulated us on our way to the alpha's building. The day went by without a fuss because Seokjin didn't show up for class. It was the last period, and I was free, so I went to my locker to put away my books when I felt the presence of a person.

"What's with you creeping up- oh," I quickly shut the locker thinking it was Minah, but it wasn't. It was Haerim... staring sharply at me with her arms crossed.

"Did you really think you made it?" Haerim asked while smirking at me. What is she talking about...?

"What do you want?" I asked unsurely.

"Walking around campus with that pretty smile of yours. I knew you always wanted Taehyung. You used his best friend to get him. Of course, the rumors about you are true," Haerim chuckled while shaking her head at me. Usually, I'd get pissed at these kinds of statements, but I didn't. Weirdly, I was very calm. I always get in trouble with their lovers... wae? First, it was Mira. Then Minah. Then So-young- now Haerim???

"Believe whatever you want. I don't care," I spat and walked off.

"You think you own him, huh? It's just a matter of time before you realize it's the other way around. It'll be too late. He isn't who you think he is," Haerim laughed, causing me to stop dead. So she's jealous. She ditched him... and now she's jealous. Ah... this weird chain of rejected love. Shaking my head, I quickly stride off without another word. The number one lesson I learned after getting sucked into this fucked up society is to never show my real emotions. The more I try to prove my innocence, the more they feast on it. It's better to leave them questioning the truth because they'll only twist it if I care to explain.

"Ah-" I gasped when someone suddenly yanked my arm at the corner of the hallway and pressed me against the wall. I looked up to find... the familiar monolid eyes staring into mine. Jimin.

"S-Sora, I can't do this a-anymore..." Jimin whispered in a broken voice as he shook his head in defeat.

"Jimin. It's okay, calm down," I said placing my hands on his cheeks to stop him from shaking his head repeatedly. My chest began aching again as I looked into his tearful eyes.

"I-I tried. B-But this- it's killing me. The pain. I-I feel like I'm going crazy! I know you're feeling it too-"

"Jimin. Breathe. Please. Listen to me, I know it hurts a lot, and if I could go back in time, I would. I'd go back to you. But I can't do that now, we can't- it's over. There's nothing we can do- I need you to stay strong and let time heal you. I'm doing the same-" I was quickly cut off when Jimin suddenly grabbed onto my jawline and pressed his lips against mine. I resisted, but he only fastened his grip around me. I stayed still as he caressed his lips against mine. Despite the erupting urge in my chest- I clenched my fist and didn't respond to his call. Jimin slowly drew his lips away from mine, so I pulled my lips into a thin line. His broken eyes... searching mine in confusion and pain. I felt my chest throbbing, but I held it in, and sternly stared at him.

"S-Sora... I know you're-"

"I'm really sorry," I whispered, sliding from under his arms, then rushed off in the opposite direction as tears began to trickle down my cheeks. I love you, Park Jimin. But this is the end of us. I can't go back to you. This is my punishment. It'll hurt awfully to end our love because if I don't... we will both begin to rot and suffer in immense pain. This is the only way to save us from drowning in our past mistakes. It's the only way to heal and move on with our life. You'll always have a place in my heart... but it will no longer belong to you. My chest churned and throbbed in agony as I fought to regain control of myself. Usually, I'd collapse and bawl my eyes out... but I didn't. Instead, I sucked in my breath, rubbed away my tears, bit my lower lips, and walked away as if nothing happened. Did the pain ease? I'm dealing with it better now... or maybe... I just got used to it.

"Oh. What are you doing here?" I quickly swallowed the hot lump in my throat as I walked up to Jungkook, who was sitting in the empty study room by the glass window with the view of the eastern part of Seoul. I need to distract myself.

"Nothing," Jungkook quickly slammed his book shut and shoved it into his bag. He was sketching something. Why is he so cold?

"I guess you're still mad at me," I sighed and turned away.

"Where are you going? Sit down," Jungkook snapped, so I stopped and sat in front of him.

"Playing hard to forgive?" I scoffed, turning to look at the cloudy sky with a bitter expression.

"What's wrong with you? Do you have a cold? Fever?" Jungkook suddenly reached over to place his hand against my forehead, causing me to lean back awkwardly.

"No?!" I snapped, swatting his hands away, so he crossed his arms and glared at me.

"Your nose and cheeks are red," Jungkook muttered, glancing away in irritation. Oh...

"I'm fine, probably a little bit cold," I shrugged awkwardly.

"Am I fool...? I wasn't born yesterday. You cried again, didn't you?" Jungkook rolled his eyes at me, causing my cheeks to flush red in embarrassment.

"Ani! I really didn't-"

"Yeah. Yeah... I believe you," Jungkook sarcastically nodded his head at me, so I darted him a sharp glare.

"Aren't you supposed to be in class?" I asked, tilting my head in confusion.

"I don't feel like it," Jungkook said dully staring out the window. He looks so depressed nowadays.

"I know you still take self-defense and Taekwondo classes after school. Can I join you? I want to at least protect myself when I'm in danger," I asked, leaning back against my seat with my arms folded. Jungkook averted his eyes to me unsurely.

"It was Taehyung's idea, wasn't it? Yah... as expected. He's really building his fiancée strong," Jungkook scoffed at me in disbelief.

"It's not just because of him. I'm always a nuisance to you guys. I always give you a hard time, and I'm tired of not being able to do anything but watch people risk their lives to save mine," I shook my head at him sadly.

"Yeah. You quit defense class even before you started. Coach will not train you with me because I'm a black belt," Jungkook huffed in a prideful tone.

"I don't want to train alone. Oh- why don't you teach me instead? It'll be less boring," I suggested while beaming at him.

"Teach you? Why would I? I'm sure we'll end up arguing most of the time," Jungkook scoffed at me and crossed his arms again.

"Araso! Whatever. I'll just ask Minah and Yoongi to train with me since I trust them the most," I sighed, pressing my hands against my cheek.

"You trust that cheater? Are you crazy?" Jungkook shot me an offended look.

"I thought you two sorted it out," I shrugged, turning to look at him.

"Tsk. She basically guilt-tripped me during the entire conversation. She made me feel bad about my actions. And believe me, for a second, I almost thought it was all my fault. She's very manipulative," Jungkook gritted at me.

"Maybe she isn't wrong. If you didn't do anything wrong, you wouldn't have felt guilty, but you did. It's not entirely

your fault, but you are a part of it," I shrugged at Jungkook, so he fell silent.

"What did you do wrong? I'm sure you know the answer," I continued before averting my eyes to the sky again.

"You," Jungkook said quietly. I averted my eyes back to him.

"Moh?" I questioned in confusion as he sat sternly staring at me.

"You were the reason-"

"Why didn't you pick up my call? I've been searching for you," Taehyung walked in with his eyebrows furrowed and his backpack swung over his left shoulder.

"You called? I didn't get any- oh... my phone's dead," I whispered, pulling out my pitch-black phone.

"Why didn't you come to class? You're supposed-"

"I didn't feel like it. I'm not a kid anymore, stop lecturing me," Jungkook shot Taehyung an irritated glare.

"Kaja... "Taehyung muttered. He swung my bag over his other shoulder and grabbed hold of my hand.

"Where are you going?" Jungkook asked dully.

"Do you have a problem?" Taehyung dawdled.

"I thought she's going to train with me after school...? No? Okay then," Jungkook shrugged, getting onto his feet. Taehyung and I quickly exchanged glances.

"You head home first. I'll train with him," I smiled at Taehyung, who nodded at me, and we left the building together. Jungkook and I went to the elite training center, and for some reason, the coach didn't show up, so Jungkook taught me the basic moves.

"Try to ease your shoulder, you're not fighting with it. Transfer your strength to your fist instead... so relax your shoulders," Jungkook said gently placing his hands on my shoulders as I stared at our reflection in the mirror.

"Oh, I'm ready," I nodded, tightening my fist as Jungkook circled me. Jungkook made me punch the training pads in his arms over and over again to warm up my muscles. And then we moved on to self-defense techniques, so we spent another hour tackling each other and rolling around on the mat. He taught me how to deal with a rear choke. Jungkook places his forearm around my neck from the back and tugs me backward- as quickly as possible. I had to tuck my chin in to block his forearm from compressing my neck while I pulled onto his arm with all my might. The next step is to bend down a little, hastily wrap my right leg around his left shin, then push my body to the right, and slam my leg around his shin- making him slip onto his back. Seizing the opportunity, I pinned his chest down with my knee while gripping firmly onto his arm. We practiced the same technique repeatedly when Jungkook suddenly shot up to wrap his arms around my upper body... slamming me hard onto the mat without warning.

"AH! YAH! THAT WASN'T PART OF THE PLAN!" I yelped, feeling a sharp pain surging through my back as Jungkook pinned me down onto the mat.

"This is why you should never let your guard down. Do you think the attacker won't resist?" Jungkook smirked as he hovered above me with his soaked bangs. Oh... he's playing dirty, huh...? I said nothing and lay under him in silence. Slowly... I reached out to brush back his hair, causing his cheeks to flush red. Jungkook unblinkingly stared at me.. lost in his own thoughts.

"You're... really... screwed!" I snapped, hastily wrapping my arms around his neck. I headlock him, then tug him forward with all my might. I quickly thrust him off me and rolled on top of him instead before pinning him down onto the mat.

"What the hell!?" Jungkook groaned while gagging in shock.

"Caught off guard?" I smirked at him and pushed myself up. He fired me a sharp glare, so I chuckled and walked away to catch my breath.

"Oh... you are so not going anywhere," Jungkook gritted, flipping onto his feet and dashed towards me. Shit! My heart began racing as he galloped towards me. I'm not ready for his attack- before I even knew it- my body twisted on autopilot. I raised my right leg and swung it straight at Jungkook. My feet slammed hard against Jungkook's upper left arm... sending him tumbling onto the mat...

"Argh!" Jungkook grunted. I lost balance after the impact and fell in the opposite direction in shock. What... did I just-...? I turned to look at Jungkook, who was rolling around in pain as he clutched onto his arm...

"Are you okay? I-I'm sorry- Ah!" I scrambled towards Jungkook in panic when a surge of unexplainable pain pierced through my head. I grabbed onto the side of my head and looked up at Jungkook, who was grabbing his head as well. What's... happening...? All the sounds began to shut out and my vision became blurry... pain was thundering in my head. I screamed at the top of my lungs-

Vision

Flash... I was in a brightly lit room... it was a small training room. I glanced at the warm sunlight beaming through the slightly open windows.

"Argh! Yah!" A boy cried, grabbing onto his head as I stood staring at his huge doe eyes in disbelief. He's about 10 years old...? He was dressed in a Dobok (Taekwondo uniform). He had a white belt around his waist... he must be a rookie.

"Yah! Don't be a chicken! Get up!" A younger girl snapped... smiling evilly at him as she balled her hand into a tight fist... waiting for him to get up. My heart stopped beating as I stood staring at my younger self... bullying the boy. He was a couple of years older than my younger self... so why is he getting beat up by me?

"Wow! That was impressive!" Another boy suddenly laughed, walking into the room. He was slightly older than Jungkook... with chubby pale mochi cheeks and monolid eyes...

"What's going on?" A deep voice asked as another teenage boy came striding into the room. He looks very reserved. He averted his dull eyes to the doe-eyed boy, who was struggling to get onto his feet.

"She did a high kick! And knocked him out!" The mochi cheek boy laughed, so the doe-eye boy shot him an angry look.

"Just wait until I master Taekwondo!" The doe-eyed boy grits... hastily pushing himself onto his feet and angrily stomped out of the room with a red bruise on his upper cheekbone. My younger self chuckled and turned to smile at the mochi cheek boy, who was beaming at me as the other boy shook his head in disappointment.

Snap.

"ARGH!" Jungkook and I cried in pain. And as if it was nothing... the pain... suddenly disappeared. No pounding... no aching... nothing. I was back in the elite training room... panting heavily on the mat as I blinked in confusion. What the hell? What's with the visions!? I never learned Taekwondo when I was younger... and I don't know the boys in the visions... though... they look very familiar... they're not my friends... I've never met them.

"Are you sure you're defenseless?!" Jungkook groaned as he pushed himself up into a sitting position.

"I don't know. It just happened. I'm sorry," I apologized, scooting closer to him.

"There's no way a noobie can master a perfect high kick with such force," Jungkook shook his head and rolled up his sleeve to reveal a deep purple bruise on his arm. My eyes widen in shock. Did I kick him that hard...? Jungkook glares at me sideways and lets out a huge sigh.

"Was your head hurting?" I asked curiously.

"Yeah, I'm probably dehydrated," Jungkook nodded, pushing himself up onto his feet.

"By any chance, you didn't see anything weird... like... visions right...?" I asked while gawking at him with my eyes huge open.

"Get changed, we need to attend the funeral," Jungkook shot me an unsettled look and left the room. It was almost dark when we got back to the mansion. Jungkook and I separated our ways. I took a quick bath since I sweated too much from the training session. I pulled on a black dress and imo helped me fix my hair into a neat bun. The visions kept on replaying in my head. The doe eye kid... and the older boy... I keep seeing them... Wae? Who are they? I'm sure I've never met them before... What-

"Did he hurt you?" Taehyung asked, lowering his head to look at me in the eyes, causing me to snap out of my thoughts.

"What? Oh no. Don't worry, we just... practiced a lot..." I shook my head at the light bruises on my arms from training. Taehyung pulled his lips into a thin line and straightened himself with a doubtful look.

"Yah. Why do you have to be so heavy-handed?" Taehyung grimaced and turned to Jungkook when he strode out of his room in a black button-up shirt and black pants.

"You want me to go easy on her? Do you think the attackers will show any mercy? And for your information... I think you're underestimating her," Jungkook scoffed while rubbing his upper arm in discomfort, then strode off. Taehyung turned to look at me in confusion as I awkwardly glanced away.

"I... accidentally high-kicked him... it's bad," I muttered, shifting on my feet uncomfortably as Taehyung stood staring at me. He suddenly chuckled and walked away with a huge grin on his face. Wae? Why is he laughing? What's so funny...? Wae wae wae...??? The cars were ready to transport us to the funeral hall, and I was about to enter when I heard Mrs. Park scolding Jimin about his messy tie. She tried to fix it, but he pushed her hands away and entered the car with Taehyung. Flashes of memories came flowing back into my head... the way his eyes burned in pain as he pinned me against the wall. He's a mess. We're both a mess, but I managed to bury it inside me.

Sighing, I entered the car with Jungkook. I said nothing as we drove out of the mansion. We were dead quiet. I thought he was mad at me for hurting him when something landed on my shoulder. I turned to find Jungkook dozing off on me. His head was tilted uncomfortably against my shoulder. Softly exhaling... I scooted closer to him so he could rest his head comfortably on me. He must be exhausted from dealing with my bullshit all day. I sat staring at my hands in silence as his soft hair tickled my cheek. The faint... lily scent... filling my nose... it's odd for a guy to smell like lily... but it's not the sweet feminine kinda smell... it was faint... almost like his natural scent. It was very soothing as well... and yet again... I can't deny how familiar it smelt. We finally arrived at The Ryu's funeral house, so I woke Jungkook and helped him out of the car.

"Oh, you got something on your face," I said reaching out to brush the side of his puffy eye from the nap. Jungkook nodded sleepily. He suddenly grabbed onto my shoulders and turned me around in the opposite direction. My heart jumped to my throat when I came face to face with Taehyung, who was darkly staring at me from under his bangs. I smiled at him awkwardly as he slid his hand into mine and dragged me with him. We entered the building and sat down. My eyes drifted to So-young's photo. Her sharp catlike eyes... her egotistic smile... and her long blonde hair... it's as if she's still alive... but no... she's gone... like nothing. My eyes then drifted to Mrs. Park... who was eyeing her son worriedly when he got onto his feet and left the room.

"I'll be right back," I smiled at Taehyung and got up. I made my way in the opposite direction but eventually rounded the hallway and came back to the passage Jimin entered. I leaned against the wall and waited in front of the reserved restroom for relatives of the dead. The door unlocked, and Jimin came out with a soaked face and hair. I quickly pushed myself off the wall, pushed him back into the restroom, and quickly locked the door. Jimin looked at me in confusion as he unconsciously placed his hands on my hips. I bit my lips and stared at him in silence... examining his dark circles... and dim eyes.

"You can't live like this," I mumbled, undoing his messy tie and quickly re-did it. I could feel Jimin tugging my hips towards his, but I ignored it and continued to fix his tie. He leaned towards me, but I quickly turned away. I grabbed a towel and gently dabbed it on his face. He glanced away in disappointment as I continued to reject his affection. I might be calm, but my chest is about to explode. I'm so so so close to engulfing him in my arms, but I ignored the urge and locked away the desire to have him.

"Are you really okay?" Jimin whispered while staring at me. I briefly looked into his misty eyes and gulped.

"I have to be okay-" I was cut short when Jimin suddenly pressed his lips against mine. Though... he didn't move his lips... he stayed still. I froze in my place as my heart began racing... fuck. I'm gonna lose it... I'm gonna lose it. His warm breath was brushing heavily against my face, so I sucked in my breath in panic. He pulled away... cupped his hands around my face and pressed his forehead against mine. The tip of our noses barely grazing one another as he rested his forehead on mine.

"Love me... love me... please," Jimin whispered, closing his eyes and exhaled deeply. So I let him. This will be the last time I give in to him. This will be our last moment. I'm aching for him, but there was nothing I could do. My heart isn't aching for love... it's aching because of the wound he gave me. He broke me... and my heart's begging to heal... but it can't because he refuses to let go of my decaying soul.

"In another life, I'll love you until my last breath. But not this one, we aren't meant for each other. So please let me go... jebal... Jimin please," I begged, screwing my eyes shut as he shakily sobbed. Every part of me broke into pieces as I stood there... leaning my forehead against his. This life... it's not about me and him... Jimin-ah... in another life... I'd make you stay.

"A-aish... wae... wae... everything... i-inside me... is crumbling- S-Sora. Why let us fall in l-love if our fate wasn't m-meant for each other...? W-wae? Isn't it too c-cruel?" Jimin stuttered as he choked in tears. My heart pounded and ached with every word he said.

"M-Maybe... w-we don't deserve each other... m-maybe... you and I... we're just two strings entangled at a point. L-little did we know it'll separate... into different paths...," I stuttered as tears filled my eyes.

"H-hajima... Sora- hajima. We're not going anywhere. I won't let it happen- please...," Jimin shook his head... tightly grabbing onto my hands.

"It's not me Jimin, believe me, it's not me. It's the reality we have to face, I'm sorry," I sobbed, pulling my hands free from him. He looked up at me with his burning red eyes.

"In another life... I'll fight for you. I'll make you mine- I lost you, but I won't lose you again," Jimin whispered as a stream of tears slid down his cheeks. This is our closure... we're finally letting go of each other.... this is it. This is the end of us.

"I'll wait for you until then," I nodded shakily at him and quickly left the restroom. Tears began streaming down my cheeks, but I quickly rubbed them away to suppress my feelings once again. I waited for about five minutes before returning to the hall. Taehyung's going to suspect my flaming eyes... I need an excuse.

"Ah~" I quickly groaned while rubbing my eyes as soon as I got to Taehyung, who quickly turned to look at me in confusion.

"Wae? Wae? What's wrong??" He asked, looking at me with his eyes wide open as I sat down beside him.

"Something went into my eyes... ah~ it stings," I groaned, so Taehyung held onto my wrist to stop me from rubbing my eyes.

"Let me see," Taehyung mumbled, gently pulling my hands away. He observed my eyes worriedly, leaned over, and blew gently at my eyes. I blinked a few times and nodded at him.

"It's gone. It's not hurting anymore... thank you," I smiled, weakly touching my eyelids.

"Don't touch it!" Taehyung snapped, pulling my hands away, so I sniffled and shot him an apologetic look. Jimin finally went up to the podium with burning red eyes and a nose. He looked as if he was really mourning So-young's death... but he isn't. I can't be with him anymore.... but that doesn't mean I can't protect him. I know. I'm a fool for covering up his sinful acts... but it's over... none of us can undo the past. It's better to cover it up and end the trouble here. Most of the alphas showed up to the funeral, even Seokjin. Sure, the alphas might be each other's worst enemy, but it's a tradition to attend and pay respect to the deceased. It doesn't matter if they're your ally or enemy.

"I didn't know he could be so pretentious? He should be awarded for his acting skills," Taehyung scoffed while staring at Jimin, who was delivering his speech in tears. I bit my lips guiltily and glanced at my hands. Taehyung-ah... I wish I could tell you the truth... but it'll only break the thin thread of friendship you have left with Jimin. I'm really sorry, but this will be the last time. From now on, I'll only focus on building a happy life with you. I don't deserve you, but fate says otherwise.

After the funeral, we all left and headed home. Jungkook was still clueless of So-young's death because Taehyung, and I decided to keep it to ourselves. It'll only kill him inside if we tell him we're protecting a murderer. Therefore, Jungkook seems to feel sorry for Jimin who was constantly seen breaking down. I'm sure it'll pass.

___________________________

A few days later

Jungkook and I finally arrived at the mansion at dusk after our training session. I was feeling very drained so I quickly headed inside but abruptly stopped when a lean-looking guy, dressed in a formal velvet suit walked up to me. He had a sharp V-shaped face and parted bangs. He looked familiar...?

"Nice to meet you," He said reaching out his hand.

"Um... nice to meet you too," I nodded, shaking his hand awkwardly. Maybe appa's guest? I'm sure I've seen him somewhere though...?

"Oh sorry, you must be confused by my sudden greeting. I'm Chul Sungho, the second-rank anonymous alpha," He chuckled cheerfully at me. I won't fall for it again. I'll never know their real intentions.

"What brought you here...?" I asked as Jungkook came into the mansion with my bag swung over his shoulder. Oh... I must've left it in his car.

"My parent is here to negotiate with your household. We want to stand by your side, be your ally," He slightly nodded his head at me. Oh...

"And hello I'm-"

"I'll drop it in your room," Jungkook spoke in disinterest and walked away with my bag even before Sungho could introduce himself, leaving him standing awkwardly.

"He's a bit... exhausted. Sorry about that," I pulled my lips into a thin line.

"It's fine, he's my role model. I did a lot of research about you guys," Sungho exclaimed, causing me to feel a bit uncomfortable. He didn't have to tell me that...

"Ah. I see. Well, I hope the negotiation goes well. I'll see you around," I smiled at him and walked away. He's the new alpha at school. I saw him around once in a while, and he always had a book in his hand. I entered my room and flicked on the light.

"Ah! Kamjagiya!" I screamed in panic when I found Jimin sitting straight up on my couch with his eyes closed. What is he doing here? I thought we-

"Oh. Sorry. Did I scare you?" Jimin asked, turning to look at me apologetically.

"It's fine. I'm a bit drained from training all afternoon," I shook my head and took off my shoes. It's a bit awkward, but I shouldn't make him feel bad... so I should just pretend as if everything is okay. You need to heal Sora, so be cautious.

"I couldn't find my usual gray hoodie, so I thought it was here. I didn't touch anything, don't worry. I've been waiting for you," Jimin slightly smiled at me. He seems... alright? Very calm compared to the last few days. He must've pulled himself together.

"Oh. Alright. Give me a second," I nodded, walking into my closet room. I didn't even have to think. I knew exactly where it was at. I quickly walked over to the upper drawer and pulled out his jacket before walking back out, then handed it to him.

"Thank you," Jimin nodded, awkwardly averting his eyes away.

"No problem, have you eaten?" I asked with my hands behind my back. This is too awkward... we're both trying to contain our feelings.

"Yeah, I did- look. I came back to my senses, so don't worry. I just want to thank you for loving me...- anyways... I'll get going now, I have to see someone," Jimin smiled, getting on his feet. He couldn't look me in the eyes, so he kept averting his eyes away.

"Ah. Araso, have fun," I nodded at him as he walked out of my room. I let out a huge sigh of relief when the door slammed shut. Why am I out of breath? I should get used to this! Aish. Shaking off the thoughts, I quickly took a shower and headed to the dining room. I stopped midway and made my way back to Taehyung's room. He's been busy with a lot of work lately... he didn't even attend class today.

"Taehyung?" I called, softly knocking on the door. I heard shuffling inside the room, so I took a step back when he pulled open the door.

"Oh. Sora. Come in," Taehyung nodded, opening the door for me. He was his in night robe. His hair was striking messily in different directions. A stack of files rested on his desk. He must be very occupied...

"You should take a break- ani- do you want me to help you?" I asked, approaching his desk as Taehyung went through the files again.

"It's okay, I'm almost done," He smiled while shaking his head at me as I picked up a file to skim through it. It was a record of the alphas... and of people I hadn't met before. Maybe our parent's minions? I flipped the page to find a picture of a familiar-looking elderly. I racked my brain, but nothing came to mind. Maybe he's one of the staff working at appa's tower? Aish... I've been so forgetful lately. My eyes drifted off to his name... Park Jihyun. Huh...? Is he related to Jimin? Shrugging, I placed the file back down.

"Is he related to the Parks? I think I've seen him before," I asked curiously. Taehyung looked up at the file and froze for a second before tugging it out of my hand, then tossed it into his drawer.

"You've seen him before?" Taehyung asked, furrowing his eyebrows at me.

"I don't recall a solid memory of him, but he looks familiar," I nodded, closely examining Taehyung's pale face as he sat staring at me. Why does he look so anxious?

"He passed away almost 17 years ago. He's not related to the Parks. He's appa's ex-chief assistant. Appa wanted me to do some digging and look for his old staff because he wanted to offer their family financial assurance," Taehyung nodded, turning back to his file, and pulled his lips into a thin line. I guess he's just stressed...

"Why don't you take a break? Let's have dinner?" I asked, nodding at the door.

"You head out first. I'll wrap this up in five minutes and join you," Taehyung smiled at me, so I nodded and walked out of the room. Maybe I'm distracting him. It's better if I leave him alone. I got to the living room when Jimin walked past me... dressed up in tight jeans and a black leather jacket... his hair was neatly groomed. He's going out to have fun. I was about to say something when Jimin walked past me with a straight face plastered on his face. He didn't even blink as he strode into the parking lot. He didn't see me? I guess he's lost in thoughts. A moment later a car drove out of the mansion, and that's when it hit me... Jimin's energy... when he walked past me... it was dark... how did his mood shift so fast... why is he- Sora! Stop it! He's fine! Worry about yourself! -Araso. Sighing heavily, I sat down on the couch and went through the newspaper. I'll wait for Taehyung to finish up his work. I don't want to eat alone.

"Did he leave?" Jungkook's voice came from my left, so I turned to find him drying his wet hair with a towel as he sat down on the opposite side.

"Who? Jimin? Yeah," I nodded, turning back to the newspaper.

"Yah... I really thought he was just using the Ryu for power. I don't get it. He was all over you- so I thought he was really into you and not the girl. But... her death broke him very bad... he bawled his eyes out for days after her death," Jungkook muttered, pulling his eyebrows together in confusion. I bit my lips and kept my eyes trained on the newspaper. Everyone thinks So-young death broke Jimin... but in reality... it's me. I'm responsible for his pain. It's killing me on the inside because I can't even tell anyone about it. Of course, Taehyung knows, but I can't talk to him about it... he'll get upset.

"He must've unconsciously fallen for her," I said quietly flipping through the page.

"No matter how hard I thought about it. It doesn't make any sense- but whatever. Love works in mysterious ways. I hope he'll have a nice time with the new girl. At least he can distract himself for a while," Jungkook shrugged. I quickly looked up in confusion... What is he talking about...?

"New girl?" I asked, sitting up straight. Something doesn't feel right.

"Yeah. I felt bad for him. He lost you and So-young. So I introduced him to this new alpha in the fifth rank. I set them on a blind date today. He left to see her," Jungkook nodded while brushing his bangs with the towel. My body turned cold as the blood drained from my face. No no no.... what the fuck.

"Andwae! Where's the location of the date!?" I snapped, jumping onto my feet in disbelief... startling Jungkook.

"Wae? Why- Are you jealous? I thought-"

"I'm not jealous! Give me his location!" I snapped, feeling my inside flip upside down. No no no... this can't be happening!

"Tsk. Yah. Be quiet Taehyung will kill Jimin if he hears you!" Jungkook scoffed while staring at me with his eyes wide open. My entire body began trembling violently at the thought of Jimin going out with the girl.

"You don't understand! This isn't a joke! The girl is in danger!" I screamed in frustration as I dialed Jimin repeatedly, but he wouldn't pick up my call. No... No... I felt his dark energy when he left the mansion... and I didn't stop him! Fuck!

"What do you mean? She's perfectly fine-"

"J-just please tell me his location! Jungkook... jebal..." I begged as tears filled my eyes. I'm scared. The darkness... I shouldn't have dismissed it. I don't want to b-be responsible for another death.

"What's going on? Sora..." Taehyung asked, walking up to us as Jungkook continued to stare at me in shock.

"She- I don't know why she's crying- I was just-"

"Just what!?! What did you do?!" Taehyung roared at Jungkook, who was still bewildered by my sudden outburst.

"He- he set up a blind date for Jimin with a girl. H-He left awhile a-ago... Taehyung... I-I," I couldn't finish my sentence when tears began streaming down my cheeks. I've never been so frightened in my entire life. I couldn't stop So-young's death because I didn't know about it but-

"Sora. Calm down. I'm sure he wouldn't-"

"Taehyung! Please listen to me! I saw him before he left the mansion! H-his sinister energy... it was there... please... I can't bear to be responsible for another death... -jebal..." I sobbed as Taehyung's eyes grew wide open in shock. Blood drained from his face...

"Death? What death? Can someone explain-"

"Shut up!" Taehyung bellowed angrily at Jungkok, who bit his lips nervously... confused and frustrated by our dismissal. Taehyung raced back to his room to get changed, and we left the mansion together. Jungkook drove us because Taehyung's jeep wasn't fast enough. Jungkook grew hushed and looked at us as if we were crazy.

"Y-Yah. What's going on? Can someone please tell me what the fuck is going on? If the girl's really in danger... for some unknown reason. I'll be the one responsible!" Jungkook snapped while glaring at me through the rearview mirror.

"HE KILLED SO-YOUNG!" I blurted in anger and clenched my fist tightly.

"W-what?" Jungkook stuttered. He couldn't process my words, so he kept averting his bulging eyes back and forth between us with a dumbfounded expression.

"We hid it from you. The truth. Jimin isn't in his stable mind right now. He killed So-young with his own hands. She threatened to submit his contract to Seokjin- so he- killed her," I muttered as I felt a hot lump in my throat. What if I'm too late...? What if he kills another person...?

"What? But- he was grieving-"

"Shut up, will you!? Now isn't the time to answer your stupid questions!" Taehyung snapped at Jungkook, who shot him a sharp glare and angrily slammed onto the gas pedal, causing us to jerk forward. We got the five-star restaurant Jungkook booked for Jimin. Jungkook quickly got out of the car and rushed inside to the reception while Taehyung, and I waited in the car. My heart wouldn't stop racing as fear loomed over me.

"Sora- Sora. Look at me," Taehyung turned from the passenger seat as I tapped my feet anxiously.

"Taehyung- I-"

"I know. But whatever happens, remember it isn't your fault. Okay? We're in this together," Taehyung assured me as he reached out to pull my hands away from my face and held tightly onto it.

"SHIT! WHY DIDN'T YOU FUCKING TELL ME HE'S A FUCKING PSYCHOPATH?!" Jungkook roared, jumping into the car with a bewildered look, then started the engine in panic. Wae...? Why is Jungkook-

"He left?" I asked quietly...

"THEY NEVER CAME HERE! FUCK!? WHERE ARE WE SUPPOSED TO GO!? I DON'T KNOW-"

"GET OFF! I'LL DRIVE!" Taehyung snapped, shoving Jungkook out of his seat, and slid into the driver's seat. Jungkook hurriedly rounded the car and got into the passenger seat instead. Taehyung violently reversed the car and shot down the street at full speed. My entire body suddenly turned icy cold, making me feel very nauseous from the overwhelming panic. I couldn't focus on anything as the gruesome scene of So-young's death replayed over and over in my head. Jebal...

"Oh. How's your date with Jimin?" Jungkook asked nervously while biting onto his finger as he called the girl. I bit my lips and turned to look at Jungkook worriedly.

"Oh? Araso. Have fun," Jungkook nodded, quickly hanging up on the girl.

"She's still safe?" I questioned, leaning forward curiously.

"She said he took her to his place. Did he take her to the mansion? I don't-"

"Oh," I whispered... my soul left my body. Shit. Taehyung suddenly did a sharp drift and shot down the opposite direction instead.

"Wae??? Wae?! Aish! Why did you hide the truth from me?! If something happens to the girl- I'll be in trouble!" Jungkook groaned as he rubbed his face in frustration. We should've let him know... it's our fault. But the truth is... I didn't want him to bear the painful truth... it's killing Taehyung, and I... so I wanted to protect him from it.

"Where are we?" Jungkook asked when Taehyung suddenly slammed onto the brake in the familiar dark alley. We both ignored Jungkook and quickly jumped out of the car... dashing into the building as fast as our legs could carry us.

"You must be kidding me! He lives in this filthy place?!" Jungkook scoffed, following us as we rushed up the countless flights of stairs. I was sweating in fear as my heart pounded rapidly in my chest. We finally landed on the 5th floor after sprinting up the flights of stairs. Taehyung bent down to catch his breath as he gripped onto the railings, then ran up to the door. He tried to yank it open, but it was locked.

"I don't have a key!" Taehyung shakily combed his fingers through his hair.

CRASH

We all froze in the dim hallway when we heard something crash inside the apartment. And to worsen the situation... the crash was followed by heavy thuds and a loud horrific scream. Jungkook's lips began trembling as he stood staring at the door in shock.

"What's the passcode?!" Jungkook gritted loudly, causing us to snap out of our thoughts. He was intensely staring at the digital keypad lock beside the door. Taehyung quickly shoved him aside and pressed in a hurry, but his access was denied repeatedly.

"AISH!" Taehyung angrily kicked the door open, startling Jungkook and I. Thud thud thud. It sounds as if something heavy is being pushed and pulled inside the apartment. The girl's thrilling scream echoed again.

"Jimin! Please open-" I cried while pounding on the door in tears. Jungkook bit onto his lips while furrowing his eyebrows at me. He quickly turned to the keypad, furiously clicked on it, and to our surprise, the door unlocked.

"It's your birth date," Jungkook whispered, turning to look at me. My heart sank...

Taehyung quickly pushed the door open, and Jungkook rushed inside, so I followed them from behind. We entered the brightly lit apartment to find shattered glasses all over the place. The place was a total wreck.

"HELP ME! SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME!" A horrified scream came from the living room, so we quickly rushed inside to find... a petite girl on the floor. The side of her head was bleeding... she was sobbing in pain as Jimin hovered over her with a dagger in his hand. It's the same dagger in the sink...

"HELP ME PLEASE! JEBAL!" The girl turned to look at us with a terrified look on her face as she scrambled desperately towards us when Jimin suddenly grabbed onto her hair and yanked her back with all his might... exposing her slender neck. His sinister darkness was even worse than I last felt it. He drove the dagger towards her. I froze in shock- the sharp edge nearly grazed her neck when Taehyung suddenly launched at Jimin and gripped hard onto the sharp blade to stop him from slitting her throat.

"Taehyung!" I screamed as he kicked Jimin square in the chest, sending Jimin crashing into the coffee table. Blood splattered all over the floor as Taehyung gripped his bleeding hand in pain.

"What the fuck is wrong with you!?" Taehyung roared, turning to help the girl who was shuddering on the floor. She gripped onto his arm and was about to pull herself up when Jimin suddenly scrambled onto his feet and bolted at Taehyung. His eyes... it was burning bright red. It wasn't Jimin inside that body. Taehyung had his back turned to Jimin, so he was exposed to Jimin's evil.

"JIMIN NO!" I screamed, rushing up to him in panic, but just as I was about to reach him- I felt a hard shove, and I was thrown to the side. I crashed hard to the floor. What the- Taehyung and I quickly snapped our heads towards Jimin... and my eyes grew huge open in terror...

In the middle of the living room stood Jimin and Jungkook. W-why did Jungkook push me- Jungkook stood between Taehyung and Jimin as he gripped tightly onto Jimin's right forearm... the dagger... plunged into the side of his lower torso. Jungkook slowly looked down at the blood seeping through his plain white shirt before averting his eyes back to Jimin, who was glaring at Jungkook with a vengeful glare. The darkness infested his entire soul. He didn't even flinch at the impact and continued to glower at Jungkook. My body turned cold when Jungkook suddenly collapsed onto the floor with the dagger stuck in him.

"ARGH! YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE!" Taehyung's eyes grew wide open in rage. He suddenly kicked Jimin right against the side of his head, hurling him onto the floor. Jimin groaned in discomfort... attempting to get up, but Taehyung violently launched at him and pinned him down before slamming his fist repeatedly into Jimin's face. The darkness took over Taehyung too... as he ruthlessly hammered Jimin in rage. I couldn't focus on anything... everything was distorted around me. Slowly... I crawled towards Jungkook, who was pushing himself up in pain.

"J-Jungkook... I-I'm sorry," I sobbed shakily as Jungkook screwed his face in distress.

"Pull it out!" Jungkook gritted while clenching his jaw tightly.

"I-I can't-"

"SORA DO IT! NOW!" Jungkook growled, leaning back against the couch as blood continued to seep out from under his hand. I was really scared. What if I end up killing him?! I-I- SORA! STOP BEING A FUCKING PUSSY AND PULL YOURSELF TOGETHER! I bit onto my lips and yanked the dagger out of his flesh without hesitation, causing Jungkook to jerk in extreme pain. He didn't scream... he couldn't. Instead, he clenched his jaw and leaned forward. I quickly compressed a towel onto his wound to stop the bleeding.

"F-Fuck!" Jungkook cursed heavily as he gripped his wound and banged his feet repeatedly against the floor to counter the pain.

"Call the ambulance! Please!" I turned to look at the girl, who was staring at us in horror. Her eyes were gleaming in tears as she quivered in the corner. She glanced at me and quickly scrambled onto her feet.

"NO! GET HER! SHE CAN'T LEAVE!" Taehyung roared heavily as the girl dashed out of the living room. Seizing the opportunity, Jimin tackled him onto the floor and began punching Taehyung with all his might. I quickly turned to Jungkook whose face was as pale as the dead... sweat beading heavily on his forehead. We'll all be in trouble if I don't stop her! Fuck it! I quickly pushed myself away from Jungkook and ran out of the living room just in time to find the girl dialing rapidly on her phone.

"C-calm down..." I said approaching her cautiously.

"You're all monsters! You- you covered up the Ryu's death-" The girl stuttered, backing away from me. I halted at her words. How did she know...?

"What are you talking about?" I asked, tilting my head at her.

"I was at So-young's place that night! We were supposed to work on an assignment together- I saw it all..." She snapped as tears rolled down her cheeks. She tried to dash away, but I roughly grabbed onto her arms and yanked her back in panic. There was a witness?!

"We- can talk-"

"No one listened to me because I'm weak! It kills me to see you mourn her death and J-Jimin- fake grieving at her fucking funeral! You are the definition of pure evil!" She screamed violently yanking her arms away from my grip. I sucked in my breath as the hollowness suddenly expanded across my chest.

"Put the phone down. I'm giving you a chance to live," I warned lowly, feeling the corrupted evil seeping into my veins. The fear inside me slowly disappeared... replaced by a dull emptiness... The girl sideways eyed the phone in her right hand, then quickly pressed it against her ear, and tried to run away. Snap. A surge of heavy sensation shot up my chest to the edge of my skull. I quickly twisted my blood and side-kicked the phone right out of her hand, sending it flying onto the floor.

"Yoboseyo? Eunjung?" A voice echoed out of the phone, causing my heart to pound in fear. The girl made a leap for the phone, but I quickly wrapped my arms around her throat and tugged her backward with all my might.

"HE- help... me..." The girl sorely screamed, but nothing came out of her mouth but air as I tightened my arm around her throat. The girl violently thrashed around for air... but she was too weak. My head was completely blank. I stared at her calmly as the darkness took over every inch of my body. Sora! You'll kill her! A small voice cried in my head, causing me to snap out of my thoughts. I can't let her go- SORA! YOU SAW WHAT JIMIN TURNED INTO! IT'S THE DARKNESS! YOU CAN'T LET IT-

"F-Fuck!" I gritted, thrusting the girl away, so she weakly flopped onto the floor... coughing hoarsely. I quickly marched over to the phone and stomped onto it repeatedly until it fractured into pieces. Thud Thud Thud. I quickly snapped my head towards the girl, but she wasn't there anymore. Where did she go?! BANG. The door slammed loudly- she left. No. I dashed out of the apartment to find her sprinting down the hallway... towards the stairs, so I ran at full speed and grasped onto her arms just before she reached the stairs.

"DON'T TOUCH ME YOU BITCH!" She screamed, turning to glare at me and roughly shoved me away, sending me stumbling onto the floor. The girl suddenly misplaced her feet on the edge of the stairs... and lost her balance. She desperately tried to grip onto the handrail, but her fingers slipped... and tilted backward. My eyes grew wide open in horror as she fell off the edge.

"NO-" I screamed, frantically crawling towards her with my arm extended out for her. The tips of her fingers barely grazing mine. I tried to reach for her... but it was too late.

"YOU'LL DIE IN VAIN-" She screamed, but her voice was cut short as she descended down the stairs.

Thud... Thud... Thud... Thump... Thud- Splat!

The eerie sound of her tumbling down the narrow flight of stairs echoed ominously throughout the entire hallway. Suddenly... the entire floor grew dead silent again. The only sound was my heavy breathing. I was on my knees at the edge of the stairs... watching the body sprawling lifelessly at the split landing of the stairs below. My eyes grew wide open... and my lips trembled as a dark murky red substance seeped from under Eunjung's body. Her arms... and legs were twisted at an odd angle.