bewitched | chapter 03
╰┈➤summary: Former neighbors turned lovers, your enchanting romance with Jungkook takes a magical turn. A spell to protect him shapes your past, and now, as a flower shop owner, an unexpected reunion brings buried secrets to light. Past and present collide in a captivating tale of love and mystery.
╰┈➤pairing: jungkook x reader (f)
╰┈➤genre: cf2l, fluff, angst, magic au
╰┈➤warnings: cursing, mention of porn, mention of role play, injuries, blood
word count. 13.5k
╰┈➤note; chapter three is out! thanks to all the people who have read my humble fic <3 hope you like!
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You, never one for large gatherings, typically stuck to intimate meetings with Jimin and Yoongi – essentially your family. Venturing into a gathering with more than two people was a rarity, and this particular meetup with Jimin and Jungkook's friends added an air of mystery. Unlike the previous occasion at Yoongi's house, where you were at least forewarned about the guest list, this time, it was a sea of unfamiliar faces.
In preparation, you deviated from your usual casual attire, opting for a relatively new and dark dress purchased for a more formal setting. The colors were a departure from your norm, but tonight called for a different vibe. Accompanying the dress were heeled sandals, adding a touch of sophistication to your ensemble.
Your usually understated makeup routine underwent a transformation. A light foundation and concealer camouflaged any signs of stress or fatigue. You experimented with a more vibrant eyeshadow, a departure from your usual natural tones, and applied a slightly brighter lipstick. It wasn't that you eschewed makeup, but your daily routine leaned towards a more natural look. Satisfied with the result, you flashed a confident smile in the mirror before leaving the bathroom.
As you headed toward the hallway to retrieve your sandals, you encountered Salem, the singing cat, belting out Selena's Amor Prohibido on the couch.
“Hey, Salem,” you called, catching his attention mid-song, “lower the volume, or Mrs. Hwang will be asking if I've acquired a singing boyfriend again.”
Salem ceased his performance with an indignant huff. “You're a buzzkill! It's not my fault your love life is practically nonexistent.”
"Okay, but always remember who's the one covering the costs of your streaming applications," you slyly hinted, adding a subtle threat. "Someday that card might just stop accepting charges, and poof! Goodbye, Jersey Shore."
Salem's expression turned horrified. "You can't!"
With a victorious smile, you replied, "Then consider toning it down a bit," playfully winking. Gathering your belongings and keys, you left your home, grateful that being late from work allowed you to decline Jiwoo and Jungkook's invitation to Yoongi's house.
The fact that they were your new neighbors still felt strange to you. After a leisurely 15-minute walk, you arrived in your friends' neighborhood. The cool summer afternoon made the journey pleasant, sparing you from getting hot or sweaty.
Before Yoongi got upset with you, he had shared the address of Jungkook's friend, conveniently located in the same neighborhood. Glancing at the message with the address, you began your search for the house. After a few minutes, you reached the supposed location based on the address—543.
Continuing a few more steps, you realized the house you sought was none other than the stunning one that had always caught your eye on your way to Yoongi's, leaving you in awe.
As you stood outside the house, a surge of surprise hit you briefly, but the appearance of Jimin's head through the home fence quickly dissolved the feeling.
“Daisy?” he called out, his voice carrying a mix of excitement and warmth. “Did you get here long ago? Sorry, we were in the backyard. Come in.”
Softly shaking your head, you replied, “No. Don't worry. I just got here.”
Jimin opened the gate, embracing you tightly. “I haven't seen you in so long!” he expressed emotionally.
Rubbing his back affectionately, a fleeting sense of guilt washed over you, but you pushed it aside. “I know. I'm glad to see you too,” you responded, releasing yourself from the warm embrace.
Jimin, sporting a wide smile, looped his arm through yours, guiding you through the enchanting garden towards a large wooden dividing gate adorned with vines.
“Almost everyone is here; only Nam is missing, but he told me he would arrive at fifteen,” Jimin informed you as you walked through the door, greeted by the enticing aroma of smoke and roast meat.
Observing your puzzled expression, Jimin apologized with a smile. “Namjoon is an older friend of ours; we met him at university. He's very intellectual.”
You smiled shyly, internally noting another friend to get acquainted with.
The blend of music from speakers and the rising murmur of conversations welcomed you as you approached the gathering area. A sprawling pool caught your eye, surrounded by plastic chairs for drying off.
Behind the pool, a substantial grill sizzled with roasting meat. Jungkook and Yoongi, each holding beers, engaged in conversation behind the grill.
Jungkook noticed you first. “Daisy! You made it!” he exclaimed, his joy evident.
Your smile was tinged with awkwardness, especially when you caught the expressionless gaze of your best friend, Yoongi. Reluctantly, you knew you couldn't avoid him forever.
Summoning your courage, you let Jimin guide you towards them. Jungkook was quick to step out from behind the grill, offering a warm hug. You reciprocated shyly, sensing Yoongi's watchful eyes on both of you.
Jungkook released you, and you took a hesitant step toward Yoongi. He casually ruffled your hair. “You're late.”
Sensing a subtle tension in the air, Jimin decided to break the silence. “Daisy, what are you serving? We have alcohol, but I know you don't like to drink, so I brought a natural fruit juice, your favorite,” he said with confidence, winking at you.
Grateful for the intervention, you smiled and accepted the juice. Jimin went inside the house, leaving you alone with Jungkook and Yoongi. The latter avoided meeting your gaze, scanning the surroundings instead.
Jungkook, oblivious to the unspoken tension, turned to you with curiosity. “Don't you like alcohol?” he asked, widening his eyes playfully.
You shook your head, a slight grimace appearing as memories resurfaced. The last time you got drunk at 19 was etched vividly in your mind. It was Jungkook's birthday, and you saw a photo of him celebrating with friends on social media. What hurt wasn't the celebration, but the pretty girl holding onto his arm, leaving lipstick marks on his neck.
A few bottles of wine and whiskey later, you found yourself crying in a public bathroom. Even the other girls in line, focused on their makeup, couldn't offer solace. Yet, the worst part came when your drunken self spent all your coins on a public phone, attempting to dial Jungkook's number. Fortunately or unfortunately, the number no longer existed.
You woke up the next morning with Salem's tail in your face, a terrible hangover, and a resolution never to drink again. For that reason, Jungkook didn't need to know the rest, so you simply replied, “No. I don't have good experiences with alcohol, and I have terrible resistance.”
Jungkook nodded thoughtfully, his understanding gaze reflecting a shared sentiment. “I get it. You should've seen Jimin the first few times he tried to get drunk in college. It was a total disaster.”
You smiled at that. Over these five years of friendship, you've had the pleasure of seeing Jimin drunk more than once, and it was always a spectacle to remember.
Wanting to delve into conversation with Jungkook, you considered asking about his evolving relationship with alcohol, his vibrant college experiences, the story of meeting Jimin, or even if he missed the simplicity of your small town after embracing the challenges of the big city for his dreams. Yet, you restrained yourself, acutely aware that Jungkook wasn't just a friend anymore. The choice to sever that bond was yours, made in consideration of both your well-being, especially with Yoongi's scrutinizing gaze in the mix right now.
Above all, there was the undeniable truth that you were still emotionally vulnerable when it came to Jeon Jungkook.
Safeguarding your heart and emotions, you let out a soft laugh. Fate, it seemed, decided to intervene, breaking the awkward silence as a figure appeared through a sliding window that overlooked the backyard.
“Jungkookie, you're a lucky bastard!” a robust, masculine voice exclaimed, approaching the trio.
As the newcomer closed the gap, his features became clearer. Thick lips, adorned with a mischievous smile, dark and attractive eyes—none other than Kim Taehyung, your childhood friend and a long-time best friend of Jungkook.
Grateful for Taehyung's attention being on Jungkook, you concealed your surprise, though Yoongi's keen eyes caught your reaction.
Upon reaching your side, Taehyung directed his penetrating gaze toward you. “But what do we have here?” he inquired with an oddly seductive tone. “Is this the sweet friend that you and Jimin kept hidden from me for so long?” he asked Yoongi, who simply shrugged.
Before you could offer a greeting, Taehyung closed the distance, almost breaching your comfort zone. His proximity, the dark intensity of his gaze, and the alluring scent that surrounded you made you nervous—something you chided yourself for since this was Kim Taehyung, your childhood friend who would do silly things to make you laugh.
“Daisy, dear Daisy,” he said huskily. “I've heard a lot about you, and let me tell you, the expectations were high. Seeing you here in front of me, I can say they've been more than met.”
Taehyung flashed a mischievous smile, noticing your stillness. You couldn't help but wonder when Kim Taehyung became so strikingly handsome.
Your interaction with Taehyung was interrupted as a female voice, unnoticed until now, spoke from behind him. “It’s you!” The moment Jiwoo's voice registered, you recognized it. In a matter of seconds, she enveloped you in a warm hug, her sweet and feminine perfume lingering in the air.
Expressing her joy, Jiwoo continued to embrace you. Taller than you, she had your face pressed against her chest, making any attempt to respond futile. Jungkook's melodic voice intervened, “Mmm Babe? I think Daisy can't breathe.” Jiwoo, surprised, released you with a yelp, wearing an apologetic expression.
“I'm sorry. It's just that you're so cute, and it makes me want to hug you,” she confessed, casting an apologetic look your way. You smiled awkwardly, aware of the curious gazes from the four present.
“It's nice to see you again,” you managed to say a bit nervously. Jiwoo, still beaming, took your arm, turning to the three men who were still recovering from the surprise. “I'm sorry, guys, but I'm taking this pretty girl.”
As Jiwoo guided you to seats away from the men, their voices lingered in the background. Taehyung commented, "I think she's happy to have a girl in the group," and Jungkook added, "I know, although I feel sorry for poor Daisy."
Unaware of their discussion, Jiwoo led you happily until you both settled into comfortable seats. “I'm so happy. I've never had a female partner in these meetings before,” Jiwoo shared, intertwining her fingers with yours. It became apparent that she had a penchant for physical contact, always eager to embrace or touch those around her.
You settled into a more comfortable smile, relieved to escape the intense gazes of Yoongi, Jungkook, and Taehyung. Free from the scrutiny, you asked curiously, “Aren't there any other girls in your group?” Admittedly, you were unfamiliar with Jimin's friends until this moment.
Jiwoo smiled sadly, “No. At least not since I started dating Kookie.” She elaborated, “There's Nam's girlfriend, but she's on exchange overseas, so it was just me.” The revelation surprised you a bit, considering Jimin and Jungkook's apparent ease in befriending women.
“But hey, you're here, and that's the important thing. I can't believe Jimin kept you hidden from us for so long,” she pouted. You nodded, realizing you were oblivious to their existence and their relationships with your friends.
Oddly enough, you found Jiwoo to be surprisingly good company. While her initial intensity might have come across as intrusive, spending time with her revealed her genuine desire for friendship. Surprisingly, you noticed that an hour had passed since you joined the friends' gathering, and the idea of escaping hadn't crossed your mind – a positive surprise.
During this time, you had the chance to meet Namjoon, who arrived half an hour after you. To your amazement, Jimin's description of him was accurate – a deep, erudite tone accompanied by kind and cordial demeanor. Engaging in conversation with Namjoon was surprisingly harmonious.
After a satisfying meal, the group settled into wooden chairs arranged in a circle on the grass, courtesy of Taehyung. With a mischievous smile, he positioned himself next to Jimin, proudly displaying a bottle of alcohol. “Okay, guys. This is my favorite moment. I have never ever…” he trailed off, and you silently cursed in your mind as you found yourself seated between Namjoon and Jiwoo.
Aware of the impending game, one you had heard of but never played, you hesitated. Yet, the infectious enthusiasm and happy looks of the others led you to resign. Taehyung passed the bottle of alcohol to Jimin, who then proceeded to pour drinks into glasses. Once ready, Taehyung looked around and posed the question, “Okay, who starts?” Despite your reluctance, the lively atmosphere compelled you to join in the game, albeit with a mix of anticipation and apprehension.
All eyes shifted toward you, a predictable focus given your status as the ‘Stranger’ in the group. Resigned to your fate, you offered with a sigh, “I guess it's me?”
Taehyung and Jimin exchanged evil smiles that sent a shiver down your spine. It was peculiar how these two seemed to be in perfect sync with each other.
“Okay, our rookie will start,” Taehyung teased, raising an eyebrow at you. “Go ahead, Dear Daisy!”
Facing the challenge, you mentally searched for a suitable revelation. Admittedly, your adolescence and youth weren't exactly wild, at least not by the standards of those around you. Drawing inspiration from reality shows you'd seen, you cautiously uttered, “I've never, ever been to a nude beach.”
A collective surprise swept across the faces of your friends, as they anticipated a more ‘appropriate’ admission. However, Jimin and Taehyung burst into happy laughter, promptly taking sips from their glasses. To your amazement, Jungkook and Yoongi also raised their glasses in response.
Intrigued, you momentarily forgot about your recent disagreement with Yoongi. Locking eyes with him, you raised an eyebrow, silently asking why he never mentioned such an adventurous experience. Unfazed, your friend just shrugged, a gesture that reminding you that you are not the only one with secrets.
Irritated, you waited for the others to continue, and now it was Namjoon's turn on your right. The boy with long dark hair let out a tired sigh, as if finding this whole ordeal quite dull. He remained still for a moment, appearing deep in thought.
Then, with a hoarse and exhausted voice, he declared, “Never have I ever watched porn.” You couldn't help but smile at the predictability of such a question in this game.
“Oh, come on, Nam!” Taehyung exclaimed, “As if that's not something everyone has done. Ask something spicier!”
To silence Taehyung, Namjoon sighed again and stated, “I have never ever seen gay porn. Taehyung laughed and took a sip, joined by Jimin and Yoongi. Unfortunately, you also took a sip, your accidental encounter with explicit content having occurred when you borrowed Jimin's computer for a seemingly innocent task.
Jimin playfully looked at Taehyung. “I understand Yoongi and me. But what were you doing watching gay porn, Tae?”
Taehyung defended himself, “Why are you questioning me? Sweet, innocent Daisy had a drink too!” The surprise in the room was palpable; even Nam raised his eyebrows.
Frustrated and embarrassed, you quickly explained, “It was a mistake, and it was Jimin's fault.”
Taehyung then gave Jimin a strange look. “How did you corrupt her mind?”
Jimin grinned mischievously at you, and you raised an eyebrow. “Poor Daisy took my computer at a bad time,” he simply explained, leading Taehyung to burst into laughter.
“Jimin!” Jiwoo exclaimed next to you. “How can you leave porn open on your computer? That's disgusting.”
Jimin chuckled. “Oh, come on, Jiji. You should ask your fiancé those questions. God knows how many times I caught things on his computer in college.”
Now, it was Jungkook's turn to chime in. “Why are you bringing me into your conflict?!” he said with a red face. “It was only twice, and it was when we were freshmen!” The room erupted in laughter, the tension diffusing into playful banter among friends.
After enduring a few rounds of somewhat absurd and repetitive questions, it was Taehyung's turn again. His mischievous look sent a shiver down your spine, giving you a bad feeling.
“Never have I ever engaged in role-playing in the bedroom,” he declared with that characteristic mischief. Taehyung, not surprisingly, took a drink and then looked at everyone with a challenging grin. “Oh, come on! What are you waiting for? I know that half of us here are into kinky shit!”
Yoongi chuckled and took a sip, and so did Jimin. Accidentally locking eyes with Jungkook, you both found yourselves taking a sip simultaneously. Jungkook gave you a sly wink. Oddly, Jiwoo hadn't taken a sip.
The truth dawned on you that you and Jungkook, during your past relationship, did attempt an embarrassing and awkward venture into role-playing. However, Jungkook taking a sip now indicated it wasn't with you, and apparently not with Jiwoo by his side either.
It was moments like these that made you acutely aware of the passage of time. You couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy in your stomach—an emotion you knew you had no right to harbor. Despite understanding this, the fact that Jungkook had moved on with his life and embraced experiences normal for his age, just not with you, stung deeply.
You mentally berated yourself, urging to shake off the feeling. ‘Enough of this,’you thought, refocusing on the group. Jungkook took the lead, suggesting a change in the topic. “Time for something more fitting,” he declared, glancing at Taehyung. “Never have I ever had a paranormal experience.”
You tensed slightly, but seeing others casually drink, you followed suit, reminding yourself it's a common occurrence. ‘It's a common thing,’ you told yourself reassuringly, "it's not like they were harassed by dead people all the time like you. Surely they saw a shadow or door open by itself, and that would be… right?
Jimin eagerly exclaimed, “I need those stories,” while Jiwoo, clearly scared, covered her ears, protesting, “Don't even think about it!”
Taehyung grinned mischievously, teasing Jiwoo. “Oh Jiji, don't be like that. Ghost stories are the best, especially for a night with friends.” Yoongi chimed in confidently, “I'm sure my story beats all of yours!” Jiwoo, annoyed, retorted, “Not you too!” crossing her arms.
You offered her a comforting smile, feeling a bit out of place. while Taehyung looked like he was saying something to Jungkook, who opened his eyes in surprise.
Jimin, visibly impatient, reached out and touched Taehyung's arm. “Oh, come on! I want to know too!” he urged eagerly.
Namjoon intervened, sensing Jiwoo's discomfort. “Jimin, Jiwoo is clearly feeling uneasy. Let's not push her,” he admonished gently.
Jiwoo, though clearly stressed, attempted to brush off her discomfort as she observed the excitement of the others. “It's okay,” she reassured them. “I know how much you all love discussing these things. I'll just go inside and make some tea.”
Jungkook seemed inclined to stop her, but Jiwoo waved him off with a small smile. “Really, it's fine,” she whispered softly before heading indoors.
You couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for Jiwoo. In the time you had spent with her and her boyfriend's group of friends, you had noticed a stark contrast in their dynamics. While they were boisterous and enjoyed teasing each other, they often unintentionally excluded Jiwoo from their conversations. They delved into topics she either didn't understand or didn't care for, leaving her on the sidelines.
You were about to step in, but Namjoon grabbed your hand, halting you. “Let me handle this. Jiwoo hates it when people pity her, and honestly, I'm not into this conversation either,” he said quietly.
You recalled that Namjoon and Jiwoo were childhood friends; their families were close, and they grew up attending the same schools and universities, both coming from affluent backgrounds. That's why Namjoon had a soft spot for her. And from what you'd heard, thanks to Namjoon, Jiwoo met Jungkook.
The two of them walked away, leaving behind a tense atmosphere. Jimin let out a sigh of apology. “I'm sorry, I was an idiot,” and everyone nodded.
Jimin punched Taehyung (who also nodded). “You're part of the problem too!”
A few minutes passed after Namjoon and Jiwoo left, with Taehyung returning from inside with a bottle of whisky and ice. Despite trying to stay glued to your seat, nerves still gripped you, causing subtle tremors. Jungkook, who was nearby, mistook your trembling for cold and began to remove his jacket to offer it to you. However, before he could act, Taehyung beat him to it, draping his expensive-looking dark jacket over your shoulders and adjusting it with a smile that made his eyes disappear. "You looked like you were cold," he remarked, his expression warm.
Grateful for the gesture, you nodded, while beside you, Jungkook settled back into his chair. You couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt as you noticed his pouting expression and slumped shoulders, realizing he had wanted to offer his jacket first and now felt embarrassed by the mix-up.
The good thing was that neither Yoongi nor Jimin seemed to notice the scene, as they were engrossed in their own conversation.
"Well!" Taehyung called for attention, tapping a button on his phone to dim the lights in the backyard where you were gathered. "Damn, like you have to scrub your money," Yoongi playfully cursed.
Taehyung shrugged off the comment and straightened up in his chair, his gaze sweeping over the group as if building suspense. "Well, as you know, aside from being a talented and successful businessman, I'm also a fan of the paranormal!" he announced. "A hobby that I've cultivated since childhood, but which became more formal during my university years."
You remembered that Taehyung had been the president of a paranormal club during your childhood and teenage years, a fact you had forgotten to mention earlier. It seemed that his interest in the supernatural had persisted, as he now spoke about his more formal group dedicated to investigating paranormal phenomena across the country.
"Well, a while ago—when you were traveling," Taehyung said, glancing at Jungkook before continuing, "we heard about an abandoned hospital on the outskirts of the city that used to attract students and mischievous children looking for scary thrills."
"When we went—naturally, it was nighttime—we discovered that the place had been recently closed off by the police after a couple of teenagers were injured trying to get in," Taehyung recounted, his tone solemn.
"We did some research," he continued, lowering his head slightly to address the group, "and apparently, you can hear the cries of a woman at night emanating from those walls, particularly in the maternity area, according to some accounts we found online."
Yoongi snorted derisively. "Are you seriously telling me you believe what people say on the internet?"
Taehyung raised an eyebrow. "Sometimes they speak the truth. Now, let me finish," he insisted, eager to continue his story.
"Well, as I mentioned, we arrived at the hospital at night, and thanks to the skills of my friends, we managed to enter," Taehyung continued, his tone growing more intense. "At first, I thought it might be a hoax because we had set up cameras and nothing had happened. But it was when we were about to leave, around 3 in the morning, that we heard it."
"I initially thought it was Woo playing a prank on us," Taehyung recounted, his expression tense with the memory. "But to our surprise, Woo was just as startled as the rest of us. As we approached the source of the sound, the cries of the woman became clearer. However, our luck took a turn for the worse as we ended up getting lost."
"While we were attempting to capture something on camera, it failed us," Taehyung explained, frustration evident in his voice. "The images came out distorted, leaving us with nothing but blurry footage."
Turning to Jungkook, Taehyung remarked, "It was reminiscent of the incident we experienced the summer after we graduated from school."
Your head shot up at the mention of summer after high school graduation, your senses instantly on high alert. It was a time when you were no longer present, nearly a year later.
Jungkook nodded knowingly. "Yeah, the time we got lost in the enchanted forest."
Your heart sank as you sat there, feeling a wave of horror wash over you. You knew exactly which forest they were referring to. The "enchanted forest" had a name, though it was seldom spoken aloud.
From a young age, your aunts had strictly forbidden you from venturing into that forest without supervision, warning of an ominous presence lurking within—an evil door, they called it. You had heeded their warnings and never dared to explore it alone. The one time you did, at the age of eight, had been enough to instill a lasting fear, ensuring you never returned.
Nineteen years ago
It was Taehyung's fault, who had discovered a fascination with the paranormal.
Devising the cover of a sleepover at Jungkook's, you and him executed a quiet exit through his window. United, you seamlessly blended into Taehyung's group at a prearranged street corner, setting the scene for a discreet nocturnal adventure.
Initially fueled by the thrill of defying your aunts' restrictions, your childlike excitement overshadowed the potential danger ahead.
Hand in hand with Jungkook, you followed Taehyung into the forest, the first hour passing without incident. A lurking fear of ghosts lingered in your mind, but Jungkook's reassuring presence provided a sense of security. However, as the group ventured deeper, the atmosphere shifted.
After realizing you were walking in circles, a wave of unease swept over you. Panic set in as you urged Jungkook to turn back, sensing an impending danger. The forest's depths became an ominous maze, and your instincts screamed that something sinister awaited.
Your face etched with fear, Jungkook, sensing your distress, swiftly halted the group. However, Taehyung, driven by a mixture of disappointment at the lack of action and a refusal to succumb to fear, dismissed your concerns, leading his friends deeper into the unknown.
Despite your desperate attempts to convey the potential danger, their determination to prove their bravery drowned out your warnings. The group pressed on until you reached the ominous site of the old mine, sealed off for years after a tragic accident claimed multiple lives.
Your instincts, now in full alert mode, screamed at you as the atmosphere grew heavier. Panicking, you implored the others to leave, but Taehyung's friends scoffed at your fear, brushing it off with laughter. Jungkook, unable to tolerate their mockery, launched himself at them, fueled by a strength that belied his eight-year-old frame. Your attempts to restrain him proved futile in the face of his resolute protectiveness.
Desperation compelled you to break the forbidden rule, tapping into your magical abilities as a last resort. With a snap of your fingers, Taehyung's friends crumpled to the ground, unconscious, leaving only Tae conscious and bewildered.
Before you could offer an explanation, an unnatural sound reverberated through the mine entrance, injecting urgency into the air. Panic seized you, and all you could do was urgently yell at them to run. Swiftly, the two boys scooped up the unconscious friends, and together, you sprinted away.
Yet, an unseen force, faster and more sinister, latched onto Tae's legs, causing him to stumble. Ignoring Jungkook's pleas to keep running, you halted, driven by an instinct to help your friend. Drawing upon Aunt Yoon's defense lessons, you harnessed the earth's moisture to ensnare the dark specter attempting to seize Taehyung.
With a surge of power, you separated the creature from your friend, creating a protective barrier that enveloped both you and Jungkook. The ethereal shield shielded you from the pursuing threat, allowing a moment to catch your breath amidst the chaos.
Taehyung's face cycled through stages of fear and surprise as the creature charged at the magical barrier, violently shaking it. Before he could articulate his thoughts, the forceful impact of the entity disrupted the tense moment.
Jungkook, torn between rage and terror, approached you after leaving the unconscious boys on the ground. The creature struck the barrier once more before he could speak, intensifying the urgency of the situation.
Realizing the need to act swiftly, you turned to the two boys. "We have to go. I can't maintain the barrier for long." Contemplating an escape plan, you devised a quick strategy.
Crouching down, you coated yourself in mud, prompting bewildered gazes from Jungkook and Taehyung. "Mud. Cover yourselves. It'll make it harder for the creature to track us." Following your lead, Jungkook and Taehyung hastily covered themselves in mud, then proceeded to cloak the other unconscious boys. The improvised camouflage became a shield against the relentless pursuit, offering a slim chance to evade the looming threat.
"I'll drop the barrier and try to cover that thing with it," you announced, the urgency evident in your voice. "But you guys have to be quick and run toward the forest exit. I'll try to hold it off as much as I can."
Taehyung vehemently protested, but it was Jungkook who seized your arm, his eyes filled with anger. "You're crazy if you think I'll leave you behind."
Frustration etched across your face as you retorted, "Well, yes, I am! But if we don't do something, we will all die!" The creature relentlessly climbed the barrier, striking it with increasing force, creating small cracks.
Desperation mounted, and you cast a pleading gaze at Jungkook, who maintained a dark and resolute stare. "Okay," he conceded, "then you and I will stay, and Tae escapes with the others."
Indignation flashed in your widened eyes. "What?! No! You have to go with them." The barrier, showing signs of imminent collapse, intensified the urgency.
You desperately gripped both boys' arms and shook them. "You have to leave now! I can't hold it back for long! Please," you pleaded, tears welling up in your eyes. Jungkook continued to resist, and you turned to Taehyung, desperation evident. "Taehyung, please! Take him."
Taehyung found himself torn between refusing and staying with you, all while witnessing Jungkook's insistence and your distressed state. The dilemma hung in the air, leaving the trio caught in the midst of an impending danger.
With determination in his eyes, Taehyung looked at you.Taehyung met your gaze. "Can you stop that thing for a little while? At least to leave these," he pointed to his friends, "in a safe area." You nodded in agreement, prompting Jungkook to unleash a string of curses directed at Taehyung. He seized Tae's shirt collar, vehemently refusing to abandon you.
Taehyung, leveraging his age advantage, freed himself and tightly gripped Jungkook's arm. "Yes, I know! We won't leave her! But we won't escape with a load. We have to leave them and then come back for Daisy!" Tae declared, hoisting one of his friends onto his back while dragging the other toward the edge of the barrier.
Witnessing Jungkook's hesitancy, Taehyung pleaded, "Please! If you help me, the faster we can get back for Daisy!" Despite Taehyung's impassioned plea, Jungkook remained rooted in indecision. Sensing the urgency, you called out from behind, "Kook, please! I'll be fine! I can protect myself!"
In a fierce display of frustration and concern, Jungkook pointed a commanding finger at you. "You better be alive when I come back for you. I swear I won't forgive you if something happens to you and I'll do everything to bring you back to life. You hear me?"
Frantically nodding, you reassured, "I promise." Jungkook insisted further, "Promise. Make a pact, promise me you'll stay alive!" Determined, he bit his finger, drawing a drop of blood, and pressed his thumb firmly toward you.
Matching his determination, you mirrored the action, declaring, "I promise!" Both thumbs pressed together with a symbolic pact sealed in blood. Jungkook then shifted his attention, setting down the unconscious boy and approaching Taehyung.
"Good. I'll do it in 3, then you must run as far as you can!" you screamed. As the countdown reached its end, you removed the barrier and swiftly replaced it, enclosing the creature within.
Jungkook cast one last intense look at you before bolting after Taehyung, who had already begun his escape. The strain on your extremities grew palpable, a testament to the tension and force required to control the unfolding situation. Alone with the encroaching danger, you prepared for the inevitable confrontation with the creature.
The specter relentlessly fought against the barrier, striking every available space to break free, but its efforts proved futile. You meticulously counted the seconds in your head, taking a deep breath to compose yourself. With your free hand, you played with the wet dirt and mud, attempting to ensnare the elusive specter within the confines of the barrier. The creature's erratic movements posed a considerable challenge.
Around half a minute into the struggle, you sensed something warm trickling down your nose. As it reached your mouth, the realization hit – it was blood. A wave of concern washed over you, recalling how, in your lessons, bleeding often led to a gradual loss of energy, eventually culminating in unconsciousness. This time, you fought against the encroaching weakness, acutely aware that not just your life but others' depended on your resilience.
The creature, realizing its futile attempts to escape, unleashed a horrific howl, a sound so piercing that it reverberated through your head. Tears of pain escaped your eyes, but you maintained your stance. The strain, however, began to take its toll. Your legs wavered, feeling as though they were on the brink of collapse.
Undaunted, you summoned the last remnants of your energy to ensnare the creature in the mud. Driven by sheer determination, you successfully immobilized it—a fleeting triumph amid the relentless physical and mental strain.
With the creature temporarily subdued, you hastily released the barrier and raced in the direction your friends had fled. Inhuman screams pursued you, each step a desperate bid for escape as branches and leaves collided with your frantic sprint.
Despite the burning sensation in your lungs, you pressed forward until a concealed root of an ancient tree sent you sprawling into the mud. A sharp cry of pain escaped as your arm, the unfortunate cushion of your fall, bent unnaturally.
Struggling to rise on the slippery ground, your desperation intensified as the unearthly screams drew nearer. You attempted to crawl, but exhaustion overwhelmed you, and you crumbled to the ground, drained by the expenditure of your magical energy.
In the obscurity, a chorus of desperate footsteps approached, and then the cry of "Daisy!" rang out. The shadows revealed the terror in Jungkook's eyes as, without hesitation, he sprinted towards you. The night cloaked you both in uncertainty, but his unwavering determination to reach you cut through the darkness.
Jungkook swiftly took hold of your good arm, lifting you from the muddy ground. His eyes scanned your face with concern as he asked with a fearful tone, "Can you run?" Tearfully, you shook your head, signaling your incapacity.
Without hesitation, Jungkook turned around, gesturing to his back. "Come on, Daisy! Come up!" Struggling, you climbed onto his back, clinging tightly to his neck. Jungkook, relying on his athleticism, dashed forward, providing a sense of relief in the midst of the dire situation.
With a voice trembling from weakness, you inquired, "Tae and the others?" Jungkook, not verbally responding, simply nodded, conveying both understanding and concern.
Behind you, the forceful movement of branches and the chilling screams grew closer. Though drained of strength, you made an effort to move tree roots and clear some branches, buying precious seconds against the pursuing creatures. "We're almost there, Daisy!" Jungkook breathed out a tired sigh.
However, just as you approached the river, marking the boundary between the forest and the city, a claw snatched your dangling, broken arm. It yanked you off balance, sending you crashing to the ground, shattering the fleeting hope of escape.
You screamed in pain as you felt your broken arm being pulled and your skin covered in claw wounds.
Jungkook stopped and shouted, coming for you.
The creature that had knocked you to the ground lunged at you, but you kicked it off and threw yourself backwards.
Jungkook picked you up but the creature quickly jumped back to you, knocking you to the ground.
Now that you had it so close to your face, you could see in detail what seemed to be its face, a kind of dark void but with a mouth with large fangs that were centimeters from your face.
With desperate force, you grapple with the creature, utilizing your legs and your one functional arm as a barrier, but your efforts are fleeting as you sense the creature being forcefully flung aside. In the chaos, Jungkook charges forward, his voice piercing the air, urging you to flee. However, despite the searing pain coursing through your body, the thought of leaving Jungkook behind is unbearable.
Then, as if a distant echo, a piece of advice from your Aunt Binna surfaces in your mind—a whispered secret shared during moments of fear and peril. She had spoken of your father's necklace, imbued with protective intentions. Though you had often disregarded its significance, the mere touch of the pendant had provided solace during restless nights plagued by nightmares.
Frantically, you grasp at your neck, feeling the familiar weight of the necklace. With a sudden burst of determination, you seize the pendant, memories flooding back as you hastily remove it from your neck. Clutching it tightly in your hand, you recall the faint whispers of a protective spell, a safeguard against encroaching darkness.
With trembling fingers, you invoke the incantation, willing the pendant to emit a radiant light. In a blinding flash, the ruby at its center ignites, casting a brilliant fiery glow. The intensity of the light sears your palm, causing you to involuntarily recoil, and in your panic, the necklace slips from your grasp, clattering to the ground.
But even as the pendant falls, its luminous aura persists, illuminating the darkness and momentarily halting the advance of the menacing creature.
As the creature savagely attacked Jungkook, tearing into his belly, your scream of horror echoed alongside his agonizing cry. Fueled by a potent mix of confidence, adrenaline, and fury, you seized the blazing necklace, feeling its fiery power pulsate beneath your fingertips.
With a newfound determination, you channeled the light, harnessing the necklace's amplifying abilities to magnify the radiance within you. The once-dim glow now surged forth from your palms, expanding into a brilliant wave of luminance that engulfed the creature in searing agony. Your own screams mingled with those of the beast, fueled by pain, fear, and a righteous anger that intensified the onslaught of light.
As the radiant beams pierced through the creature, it writhed in a futile attempt to escape the relentless assault, but the brilliance consumed it, melting away its form until it detonated in a final, blinding explosion of light. With the creature vanquished, you released your hold on the power, allowing the forest to once again succumb to darkness and chill.
Summoning your strength, you struggled to rise, your body trembling from the exertion. With each step towards Jungkook, the weight of your injuries bore down upon you, until finally, your legs gave way, sending you crashing to the unforgiving ground. Despite your own pain, your instinct to reach out to your friend persisted, driving you onward despite the overwhelming exhaustion that threatened to consume you.
With a guttural howl of agony, you dragged yourself across the frigid, grimy floor, caked in mud and tangled grass, until you reached Jungkook's side. He writhed in torment, one hand pressed tightly against his abdomen as screams escaped his lips. Collapsing beside him, your own body throbbing with pain, you gazed at him through blurred vision. His eyelids fluttered, struggling to remain open, as he reached out to touch your face with trembling fingers. With a grunt of agony, you inched closer, allowing Jungkook's icy touch to graze your skin.
"Daisy," he whispered hoarsely, the sound barely audible over the din of suffering.
You watched him intently, battling against the encroaching darkness threatening to pull you under. Jungkook's eyes remained fixed on you, despite their heavy lids, as if he harbored a desperate message he couldn't convey through the haze of pain and exhaustion. Tears welled in your eyes as you reached out with your uninjured hand, gently guiding his trembling hand from his abdomen to rest atop yours.
The fog of blood loss and anguish clouded your thoughts, but one desire burned fiercely within you: to be close to him, even in this final moment. As darkness encroached and consciousness slipped away, your last coherent memory was of Jungkook's face, his touch upon your skin, and your intertwined hands resting upon his wounded abdomen.
Chills coursed through your body as the haunting memory flooded back into your mind. "It was absolutely terrifying, do you remember?" Taehyung remarked, his voice laden with a hint of unease. "I never thought we'd find our way out of that forest. It's so eerie." But it became evident that their recollection of the event differed vastly from yours. The spell had erased the memory of that night from Taehyung and Jungkook's minds, leaving only the narrative they were discussing at present.
Jungkook nodded solemnly. "Going there while completely intoxicated was a terrible decision. We weren't the only ones who got lost there." Taehyung leaned back in his seat, his expression troubled. "I remember. Neighbor Park's daughter disappeared there and was never found." The mention of Neighbor Park, a kind and welcoming woman, hit you hard. You hadn't known about her daughter's disappearance. A lump formed in your throat as the grim reality settled in – she would never see her daughter again.
Taehyung clapped his hands together, breaking the heavy silence. "Anyway, what I wanted to say is, when we lost the camera and the lights, we heard her. The woman."
Yoongi snorted but remained silent. Taehyung persisted, "I swear on the most precious thing in my life, Yeontan, that I saw her. She was leaning against a wall, her clothes drenched."
Jimin chuckled, "Cut it out, Tae. No need to make up stories."
Jungkook joined in, laughing, while the dark-haired boy grew visibly irritated. "I'm not making this up, Jimin! I saw her!"
Jimin rolled his eyes playfully. "Sure, Tae. Whatever you say."
Taehyung was seething now. "Jungkook, you fixed the camera. There was a blurry figure in one of the photos. Don't make me out to be a liar!"
Jungkook shrugged. "Tae, I warned you it could've been a lens glitch. I never confirmed anyone was there."
Frustrated, Taehyung exclaimed, "Come on! You have to believe me!"
Yoongi, taking a sip from his glass, chimed in sarcastically, "Oh, come on, Tae! Admit it, your paranormal club is just a sham."
Taehyung stood up abruptly. "You guys just don't get it. I'm done talking about this with you ignorant lot!"
You couldn't help but laugh, covering your mouth. Taehyung looked at you as if betrayed, "Even you, Daisy?"
You shrugged your shoulders, unlike everyone present, you knew the paranormal very well. Yoongi let out a dry laugh. "Don't worry Tae, she believes in that nonsense too!" You opened your eyes surprised. You had mentioned some supernatural experiences to Yoongi before, usually under the influence of alcohol. Before you could defend yourself, Taehyung jumped in. "No way! Seriously?!" But seeing his handsome face so excited, you couldn't refuse. You still remembered how Taehyung would get enthusiastic about these things. He sat next to you, on Jiwoo's chair, and took your hands, eager to hear more. You noticed how his hands were still much bigger than yours, slightly tanned too.
"Tell me!" Taehyung exclaimed. "What paranormal experience do you have?!" You clung to your seat, contemplating your options. Should you fabricate a lie to satisfy his curiosity, or should you be honest and share a true story? Tired of deception, you chose the latter.
Casually, you began to recount a story that, while not explicitly supernatural, still held an eerie quality. It was about the time you encountered the ghostly apparition of an old man on a train platform. You described how you initially saw him waiting on the platform, only for him to inexplicably appear on the tracks as the train passed by. Yet, to your astonishment, he vanished without a trace.
Though mundane compared to your other experiences, it still captivated Taehyung's attention, evident in the starry-eyed gaze he fixed upon you. "That's incredible! Did anyone else notice?!" he inquired eagerly.
"I think so," you replied. "A girl who was standing next to me screamed when she witnessed him leap onto the tracks. But like me, she realized there was no one there afterward." You resolved his inquiry, leaving the details of your otherworldly encounters unspoken.
Taehyung settled into his chair, his mind clearly racing with thoughts. "It reminds me of the story of the schoolboy on the roads! Damn, I wonder if there are cameras that capture those moments," he mused, absentmindedly stroking his chin. As Taehyung continued to delve into the topic, the others exchanged knowing looks, indicating that this wasn't the first time such discussions had occurred.
You caught Jungkook's gaze, and he offered you a comforting smile, which you gratefully returned.
You inwardly welcomed the change of subject once Jiwoo and Namjoon returned, but unfortunately, the conversation now shifted to a trip among friends to go camping.
You tried to shrink in your seat and avoid drawing attention to yourself, but that was impossible once Taehyung looked at you with a smile.
"I hope that you, lovely Daisy, will go with us," Taehyung blurted out, and Jimin quickly perked up at this. "That's right! Daisy loves camping. We've been to the lake outside of town several times, haven't we?" Your friend smiled at you expectantly.
You forced a smile. It was true that you liked camping, but only for the reason that you felt closer to nature, plus you went with your best friends. But at this moment, not only the three of you were going, but the others, especially the person you wanted to avoid the most.
"It'll be fun, won't it?" For the first time that night, Yoongi referred to you. You stared into his dark eyes, which held ulterior motives. He raised his eyebrows, and you swallowed nervously.
You knew Yoongi was still upset and was waiting for explanations. What better way to test yourself than spending a weekend with the person who is the cause of your secrecy?
You decided to put on your big girl pants and smile widely. "Of course. We love camping with friends, don't we, Yoongs?"
Yoongi, annoyed at not eliciting the reaction he wanted from you, simply nodded and continued drinking from his glass. You couldn't blame him. If you were in his place, you'd also be upset that your best friend of five years kept secrets from you.
As the others happily began to plan, discussing where they would stay and what activities they would engage in during their time together, you quietly excused yourself and slipped into the house, under the pretense of needing to use the bathroom. In truth, you sought a moment alone to recharge your energy.
Upon entering the home, you were immediately dazzled. The polished marble floors reflected light from the crystal chandeliers above, casting a shimmering glow throughout the space. Hardwood-paneled walls exuded a sense of warmth and elegance, while the carefully selected furniture resembled masterpieces from bygone eras, adorned with velvet upholstery and intricate hand-carved details. It felt as though you had stepped into a museum rather than a house, but you found yourself drawn to the antique charm, as you had always loved old things.
Mesmerized by the environment, you drifted through the room, taking in every detail with a sense of wonder. Your eyes fell upon an ancient sundial, its refined appearance indicating that it had been well cared for over the years. The Roman numerals etched into its surface hinted at its age, yet it seemed strangely familiar to you.
Carefully, you reached out and took hold of the sundial, examining it with a mixture of curiosity and fascination. Lost in your thoughts, you failed to notice the presence that had approached from behind until a hoarse voice shattered the silence.
"Don't tell me that another of your secrets involves being a thief of ancient objects?" the voice spoke, causing you to startle and clutch your chest in surprise.
"You scared me," you blurted out, turning to face Yoongi, who stood with his arms crossed and a neutral expression on his pale face.
"You didn't answer my question," he blurted out, his voice tinged with frustration.
You sighed inwardly, feeling the weight of his mistrust bearing down on you. You knew you had lost a bit of his trust, but you held onto the belief that it was for his own good not to know the truth just yet.
"I'm not a thief, Yoongi," you declared firmly, meeting his gaze. "I was just admiring Taehyung's belongings. They're quite charming."
Yoongi made a noncommittal sound, his eyes still fixed on you, assessing.
"I'm surprised you agreed to come. You usually avoid spending time with strangers," he remarked, leaning casually against an old white piano in the room.
You shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "They're not strangers anymore. They're yours and Jimin's friends."
"Mmm, and apparently yours too," he replied, a hint of skepticism in his tone. "That photo with Jungkook seems to suggest otherwise."
Your muscles tensed at the mention of Jungkook, and you glanced nervously around the room, confirming there was no one else nearby.
"We're not friends," you blurted out, your voice tinged with urgency. "It's complicated, and you know it."
Yoongi's fingers idly tapped on the piano keys, a thoughtful expression crossing his face.
"If it's so complicated, why do you have a photo with him from almost twelve years ago?" he pressed, his voice softer but still probing.
You clenched your fists, feeling a surge of anxiety rising within you. "Yoongi, please, not here."
A knowing smile tugged at the corners of Yoongi's lips. "Come on, Daisy. What are you so afraid of? We could take this conversation to the garden and clear up any doubts by asking Jungkook about his relationship with you," he suggested, his tone laced with a hint of malice as he moved toward the exit of the room.
You watched in fear as Yoongi headed towards the window, your mind racing for a solution. In a moment of desperation, you tapped into the magic you possessed and willed the sliding window to close. A golden breeze swept past Yoongi, slamming the window shut with a force that startled him.
"___," he exclaimed your name in surprise, quickly turning to look at you. As he approached, you found yourself equally surprised, frozen in place by the unexpected turn of events.
You cursed inwardly, realizing the gravity of the situation. Blaming it on the wind or the alcohol wasn't an option—there was no wind current in the room, and Yoongi had a higher alcohol tolerance than you.
Your heart pounded in your chest as Yoongi's expression flickered through various states of confusion.
“I…” you began, but your words were cut off by the sound of the sliding window. To your dismay, Jungkook appeared from outside, his cheeks flushed with surprise at the scene unfolding before him.
"Oh," Jungkook said, his eyes filled with concern as he took in your pale complexion. "Are you two okay, Daisy? You look pale," he added, moving closer to you with genuine worry.
Not now, you thought desperately, knowing that having Jungkook so close after the tense moment with Yoongi wasn't ideal. Before you could reassure him and prevent him from coming any closer, someone else entered the room. It was Taehyung, who followed Jungkook inside and looked around at the scene with equal surprise.
"Wow, you've stumbled upon my most cherished heirloom, Daisy!" Taehyung remarked, holding a bottle of champagne in one hand as he gestured towards the sundial behind you.
Grateful for the diversion, you managed to suppress the sigh of relief that threatened to escape you. "Oh! Yes! It's absolutely adorable!" you exclaimed, your voice a touch higher than usual, surprising even yourself.
Beside you, Yoongi kept his gaze fixed on you, while Jungkook looked like a bewildered puppy.
Taehyung appeared delighted by your enthusiasm. "I know, right? It's pretty cool," he said, setting the champagne aside and moving closer to you.
As Taehyung began to explain the origins and intricacies of his cherished relic, you couldn't help but feel like you were a magnet for trouble. It seemed like every situation you found yourself in turned into a delicate balancing act. For someone who believed in and possessed magic, it was disheartening to constantly encounter such misfortune. You made a mental note to consult Salem when you got home, wondering if he knew any charms or spells to ward off ill intentions or protect against malevolent forces.
Beside you, Yoongi appeared lost in a haze of confusion, his sharp mind undoubtedly searching for a rational explanation for your inexplicable action. Yet, deep down, you knew that no logical reasoning could justify what had just transpired. He had witnessed it firsthand, plain and simple.
"Okay," you thought, a plan forming in your mind. "I'll bring Yoongi home with me and lay out the whole truth for him."
The idea of having your best friend angry at you was unbearable to your heart and mind, especially when you were the sole culprit. Your carefully crafted plan to calmly and rationally explain everything to him was swiftly thrown into disarray. Now, you would have to confront the truth head-on, blurting out the entirety of it and hoping against hope that Yoongi would still choose to stand by your side as a friend.
As Taehyung continued to ramble on about the sundial, you seized the opportunity to discreetly touch Yoongi's arm. He snapped out of his trance and locked eyes with you, to which you simply murmured, "I'll explain everything to you at home."
Yoongi raised an eyebrow at your cryptic message but nodded in acknowledgment, diverting his attention back to the conversation unfolding around him.
"Oh, Yoongi! You know him, right?" Taehyung interjected, his voice filled with excitement. Yoongi furrowed his brow in confusion.
"Kang? The guy from work?" Yoongi attempted to recall, scratching his head. Taehyung persisted, trying to jog Yoongi's memory. "Yeah, the wealthy guy who travels the world?"
A moment of realization dawned on Yoongi as he snapped his fingers. "Oh! You mean your college classmate?" he exclaimed, the pieces coming together.
Taehyung nodded eagerly. "Exactly! He was always our favorite back in college, wasn't he, Jungkook?"
Jungkook nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I haven't seen him in ages. Wasn't he on vacation in Egypt?" Jungkook inquired, his curiosity piqued. "I remember him mentioning something about wanting to explore the ancient magic of the Egyptians."
You stood by, feeling slightly lost amidst their conversation, but grateful for the distraction as your mind buzzed with thoughts of how to broach the topic with Yoongi. After all, you were harboring the secret of being a runaway witch from your homeland, with the boy in front of you being your childhood best friend and ex-boyfriend. Not to mention, Taehyung was also a childhood friend.
"Well, for someone as ostentatious as him, a vacation to a place like Egypt with that excuse seems fitting," Yoongi remarked casually, shrugging his shoulders.
"Well, this watch has a special meaning," Taehyung remarked, drawing everyone's attention back to the sundial. "At least, that's what Kang told me when he gave it to me. He mentioned that it gave him a sense of connection and calm, like he could keep track of how I was, although he never explained exactly how that connection worked."
Jungkook chuckled at this, giving Taehyung a friendly pat on the back. "Dude, you know how he is. It's probably just a luxurious piece of junk he had lying around, and he gave it to you, adding a bit of mystery like he always does," he tried to explain. Your ears perked up at their conversation.
Taehyung furrowed his brow. "Come on! You have to admit, it does give off a strange vibe. Like it's... magical," he added the last word with a special tone, causing a flicker of realization to ignite in your mind.
Magical.
That was what had seemed odd about the sundial from the beginning.
Trying to contain your excitement, you smoothly inserted yourself into the conversation. "Can I see it again? I haven't come across one like this in a while," you excused yourself, and Taehyung gladly handed the sundial over to you without hesitation.
You discreetly inspected the sundial, mindful of the three pairs of eyes fixed on you. Unlike the first time, your focus wasn't on the intricate carvings or craftsmanship, but rather on detecting any traces of the elusive magic that seemed to beckon to you. However, despite your experience with enchanted objects, this one proved to be exceptionally well-hidden. You sensed the presence of magic, but its source remained frustratingly elusive.
Then, as if by magic itself, the window abruptly swung open once more, startling everyone and causing you to accidentally drop the watch.
"No!" you exclaimed in dismay, but it was too late—the delicate timepiece lay broken on the ground.
"Oh! I'm sorry! I didn't mean to startle you!" Jiwoo's voice echoed through the room.
You and Jungkook instantly crouched down to inspect the damage, unable to see Yoongi's annoyed expression or Taehyung's frustrated glance at the girl.
"It's okay, Jiwoo. Just remember to be careful when opening that window," Taehyung responded calmly, masking any irritation he felt.
But your attention drifted away, away from the shattered clock on the cold floor, away from the chaos stirred by Jiwoo's unintended disruption. Instead, it gravitated towards the point where your hand had met Jungkook's, the fleeting touch still resonating between you like an echo of something profound.
Yet, it wasn't the physical collision that captivated you; it was the silent exchange conveyed through Jungkook's deep, enigmatic eyes. They held a universe of emotions—affection, surprise, and perhaps a whisper of trepidation—a reflection of your own soul laid bare. In that fleeting moment of contact, it was as if a burst of celestial light had illuminated the space between you, casting ephemeral shadows of longing and uncertainty.
Jungkook's gaze seemed to speak volumes, a silent poetry that danced between you, weaving intricate verses of longing and desire, yet clouded by the veil of confusion.
You knew it was forbidden, this enchantment that pulled you towards him. Another held claim to his heart, yet you couldn't help but linger in the ethereal realm of possibility, where the boundaries of reality blurred and the allure of the unknown beckoned. But reality intruded, like a harsh whisper amidst a symphony of dreams, as Taehyung's voice shattered the delicate illusion that had enveloped you both.
"Kook? Daisy?" Tae's voice rang out, laced with concern. "Are you both alright? Are you hurt?"
You snapped out of your daze first, as if a bucket of ice-cold water had been poured over you. Reality crashed back in, along with a wave of shame and dread. You scrambled to your feet, nearly colliding with Yoongi in your haste.
"I'm fine!" you exclaimed, adrenaline coursing through your veins. "I'm so sorry, Taehyung! I didn't mean to let it slip."
Jungkook rose from the ground more slowly, but you couldn't bring yourself to meet his gaze. Instead, you focused on Taehyung, who stood with his eyebrows furrowed in concern. "Don't worry, Daisy! The most important thing is that nobody got hurt," he reassured you.
Jiwoo, feeling slightly embarrassed for her sudden entrance, approached her fiancé with a worried expression. "My Kookie, are you alright? Did you hurt yourself?" she inquired sharply, inspecting his hands as he stood there, lost in thought.
Jungkook shook his head mechanically, his dark eyes fixed on the ground. Jiwoo gently clasped her delicate hands around his larger ones, planting a kiss on his cheek.
You couldn't bear to witness their tender interaction any longer. It felt like acid coursing through your veins, burning with a mixture of jealousy and regret.
Yoongi, ever quiet but perceptive, placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder. "Don't beat yourself up, Daisy. It can be fixed," he consoled, nodding towards the broken sundial.
A pang of guilt washed over you, though not for the reason Yoongi assumed. You felt dirty for harboring affectionate thoughts towards someone who was engaged. You fought back the urge to cry, knowing that it was a self-inflicted wound you had to bear.
Taehyung attempted to lighten the mood. "Yoongi's right. It's not the end of the world. It was just an accident," he chimed in, offering a supportive smile.
You managed a weak smile in return, casting your gaze downwards. Then, something caught your eye, and you widened them in surprise. Amidst the broken pieces of the sundial, a small, seemingly insignificant purple dust emanated from the carved dial. But you recognized it for what it truly was—an enchantment.
To prevent any further misunderstandings, you quickly crouched down, gathering the broken pieces and hiding the dial from view. Turning to Taehyung, you spoke up. "I'll take care of this. I know a skilled gnomonist who can fix it."
Taehyung nodded appreciatively, placing a comforting hand on your shoulder. It was your cue to make your escape. You shot a meaningful glance at Yoongi, who understood your silent plea.
"I think it's time for us to head out, don't you think, Daisy?" Yoongi interjected, coming to your rescue.
You nodded eagerly, casting a glance at Taehyung. "What?!" Jiwoo exclaimed, still holding onto Jungkook's hands, who avoided meeting your gaze.
For the sake of your own sanity, you chose not to dwell on his reaction. "I'm sorry, but I have some important matters to attend to tomorrow, and I need to get an early start," you explained, noticing Taehyung's desire to intervene. "Thank you for everything. It was a pleasure meeting you," you expressed your gratitude to Taehyung. "And don't worry about the watch. It will be good as new."
"But!" Jiwoo's interruption cut through the conversation, her tone insistent. "Our last guest has arrived! You can't leave yet!"
You were taken aback by this unexpected revelation. You hadn't known that another guest was expected. Taehyung's face lit up at the news.
"He's here already? Perfect, let's go!" Tae exclaimed, signaling for everyone to follow him outside.
As you exited the room, your eyes caught sight of a third figure engaged in conversation with Namjoon and Jimin near the pool. Though you couldn't see his face, his tall stature and broad back were unmistakable.
Jimin spotted your group and waved enthusiastically, signaling for you to join them. "Look who's back!"
Resigned to delaying your escape a little longer, you followed Taehyung's lead. As he approached the man, Taehyung greeted him with a warm hug.
"Long time no see, buddy!" Taehyung exclaimed joyfully. "I thought you wouldn't make it today!"
The other man responded with a hint of arrogance in his tone. "You know how I am. With a snap of my fingers, I get what I want."
His words triggered a sense of familiarity in you, but before you could dwell on it, Jungkook released Jiwoo's hand and joined Taehyung in greeting the newcomer, mirroring his friend's enthusiasm.
"The golden boy!" the unfamiliar man exclaimed, his voice dripping with familiarity. "I haven't laid eyes on you in ages!"
Connecting the dots, you realized that this man must be Kang, the friend of Tae and Kook.
As you approached, you could see that he was dressed in dark, expensive-looking attire, giving off the air of a corporate professional. His short, neatly combed hair and polished appearance only added to his aura of sophistication. But the horror that washed over you upon seeing his face left you breathless.
For ten long years, you had been plagued by nightmares featuring that very face. Some nights, you would dream of him causing harm to your loved ones or relentlessly pursuing you. But you always found solace in the fact that, upon waking, it was nothing more than a fleeting nightmare.
Yet now, confronted with the visage of your deepest fears, the same mocking and haughty expression etched upon his features, you felt an overwhelming urge to retch.
As if by some twisted magic, Kang Hyung's arrogant facade crumbled upon catching sight of you. His smile stretched so wide that it seemed his mouth might split open at any moment.
"I don't believe we've been properly introduced, my dear," Kang's silky voice sent shivers down your spine, making you wish you could block out the sound.
Unaware of your internal turmoil, the others continued chatting, oblivious to your frozen state. You stood as still as a statue, your mind screaming for you to flee, to escape.
Jimin, radiating happiness, took it upon himself to introduce you. "This is Daisy, our friend. I've mentioned her to you several times."
Kang's smile turned sly as he responded, "Ah, yes! I've heard quite a bit about you, dear Daisy." His intense gaze bore into you, his eyes so dark that you couldn't discern his pupils.
His words felt like a thinly veiled threat, and you knew it. He knew things about you—things he shouldn't know. The fear that gripped you intensified. You needed to leave, to warn everyone about the danger lurking behind Kang's facade.
You wanted to scream, to alert them all that the man they were smiling at was dangerous and self-serving. That he would not hesitate to harm them for his own gain. You needed to ensure their safety, to get them out of harm's way. And above all, you needed to protect Jungkook. He was your priority.But Kang shot you a knowing glance, as if he could read your thoughts, and you froze in place.
You reminded yourself that you couldn't confront Kang. You were weak, having not practiced magic, let alone protective spells, in over a decade. You felt utterly powerless to shield your friends from the danger that lurked beneath Kang's charming facade.
A comforting hand landed on your back, and you turned to find Yoongi's worried expression. In that moment, you felt exposed, as if he could see the terror that filled your eyes, threatening to consume you.
Keeping his hand on your back, Yoongi spoke up. "I'll take Daisy home. It was great seeing you all. Thanks for everything," he said, bidding farewell to the group.
You wanted to protest, to tell him that you couldn't leave your friends in the clutches of that monster, but you knew you needed to think rationally. Kang was acting friendly for a reason; he wouldn't drop his facade for you.
It dawned on you that Kang had befriended Jungkook and Taehyung for a purpose, and that purpose was you. He had approached your friends deliberately, with a hidden agenda.
He wanted you to play his game, just as you always had. If you wanted to keep your friends safe, you knew what you had to do.
"Thank you for everything. It was a pleasure spending time with you," you stated firmly, surprised at the strength in your voice.
Quickly bidding farewell to everyone, you stole one last glance, catching Kang's gaze fixed on you. His expression held a warning, silently conveying only one message: "Be careful."
The atmosphere inside the car was heavy with an unbearable silence, yet amidst everything that had transpired, you found yourself strangely indifferent. Yoongi, his gaze fixed on the road ahead, kept his pale hands firmly gripped on the steering wheel.
Rather than requesting Yoongi to drive you home, you made an unexpected decision, asking him to take you both to the place where your paths first crossed - the old museum. You, a young woman navigating the complexities of independence, seeking employment, and Yoongi, grappling with familial troubles, in need of a distraction, found solace in each other's company.
Five years ago, your lives collided by chance, or perhaps fate, as you accidentally collided with Yoongi while rushing to a job interview. However, what began as a mere accident blossomed into a profound friendship that endured the test of time.
As you parked the car and stepped out, the two of you found yourselves seated on the weathered benches outside the museum, each lost in your own thoughts, yet somehow finding comfort in the familiarity of each other's presence.
Summoning all your courage, you straightened your posture and began to speak, addressing the weighty silence between you and Yoongi. "I understand you're upset with me, and I can see why," you started, your voice carrying the weight of remorse and honesty. "If I discovered that my closest confidant of five years, someone I trust implicitly and have shared so much with, was keeping secrets from me, particularly ones as bewildering as mine, I'd be hurt too."
Yoongi's silence persisted, prompting you to press on. "I realize you're hurt, and for that, I'm truly sorry. You've entrusted me with deeply personal matters, ones you haven't even shared with Jimin. It's only fair that I reciprocate."
Taking a deep breath, you directed your gaze ahead to the tranquil scene of ducks gliding across a small pond. "I've shared some truths about my past with you—about fleeing my home and severing ties with my family, about my identity as a florist, my struggles with forging friendships, and even the trivial details like my lazy cat and the rundown apartment I call home."
You clenched your fists, willing them to stop trembling as you prepared to reveal the omitted truths weighing heavily on your conscience. "But there are aspects of myself I've kept hidden. I'm not 'normal,' at least not in the conventional sense. I know you've picked up on my sensitivities and social struggles, which society deems as deviations from the norm, but that's not what I'm referring to."
Sensing Yoongi's urge to interject, you raised a hand to silence him. "It's the truth, and I know you're aware of it. I am different, in ways that go beyond mere social awkwardness or sensitivity. And what I mean by that is..." With resolve hardening in your heart, you knew it was now or never. Honesty was your only chance of salvaging the trust between you and Yoongi, a bond you couldn't bear to lose.
"I'm not entirely human," you whispered, the admission hanging heavy in the air. "I'm a witch, descended from an ancient lineage."
A pregnant pause followed, Yoongi's silence pressing down on you like a weight, stirring a growing sense of panic within. Then, unexpectedly, his laughter pierced the tense atmosphere.
"Daisy, come on! Do you really have so little respect for me that you'd fabricate such absurdities?" Yoongi's tone dripped with annoyance. "I came here because you promised me the truth, not some ridiculous fantasy."
His abrupt dismissal fueled your desperation, propelling you to your feet in a bid to salvage the crumbling trust between you. "No, I'm not lying! I swear it's the truth!"
But Yoongi, unmoved by your plea, rose from his seat with palpable irritation, making his way towards the parking lot. "I thought our friendship was built on genuine trust, but it's clear you don't have faith in me," he retorted mockingly, his words a dagger to your heart.
Frustration and helplessness surged within you, pushing you to the brink. "Of course I trust you! That's why you're my friend!" you cried out, the desperation evident in your voice.
As Yoongi continued his departure, your patience snapped, and with a swift motion, you recited an immobilization spell in your mind, snapping your fingers to enact its power. Yoongi froze, his expression contorting in bewilderment and anger.
"What the hell?" he exclaimed, glaring at you incredulously as you strode purposefully towards him, determined to make him understand the truth, even if it cost you your sanity.
"You know, I had hoped we could discuss this like mature adults, but you've left me no choice!" Your frustration boiled over as you confronted Yoongi, the power of your words matched by the intensity of your emotions. "With a simple snap of my fingers, I can bend reality to my will!"
Yoongi's attempts to move proved futile as he remained frozen, his disbelief evident in the furrow of his brow and the widening of his eyes.
"Since you refuse to believe me and insist on leaving, I'll lay it all out for you! I'm a bona fide witch, okay?!" Your voice rang out with conviction, unapologetic for the seemingly outlandish revelation. "It's not some silly tale or figment of imagination; it's the truth, and I'm living proof of it!"
Your frustration morphed into defiance as you continued, heedless of how irrational you might seem. "I possess powers beyond your wildest imagination—I can move objects with my mind, attract things to me, summon them into existence, alter reality as I see fit! Ever wonder why our flower shop thrives, even in the dead of winter? It's because of me! I enchant the flowers, keep them vibrant and alive, ensuring they flourish and fetch top prices!"
But your abilities extended far beyond floristry, a fact you were determined to impress upon Yoongi. "And that's not all! I can charm individuals, manipulate their actions, brew potions, induce love, or even erase memories! There's a spell for every conceivable situation!"
As Yoongi stared at you in stunned silence, his disbelief palpable, you forged ahead, undeterred by his reaction. "I understand this is a lot to take in, but it's the truth, whether you choose to believe it or not!"
"Do you want to know who Jungkook is to me? Well, then listen closely," you exclaimed, your voice raw with emotion. "He's more than just a childhood friend—he's my lifeline, the only beacon of acceptance in a sea of rejection. He was the only one who saw past the rumors and stigma, the only one who saw me for who I truly am."
As tears streamed down your cheeks, you bared your soul, each word a painful admission. "Do you know why he doesn't remember me? Because I made him forget! I erased myself from his memories to protect him, to shield him from the dangers that lurked because of me."
The weight of your confession crushed you, forcing you to your knees as sobs wracked your body. "I didn't want to do it," you choked out between sobs. "But it was necessary. I had to let him go, for his own safety, even if it meant sacrificing my own happiness."
The anguish in your voice echoed through the empty space, your vulnerability laid bare for Yoongi to witness. "I didn't want to leave my home, my family, but I had to. And despite the pain and loneliness, you... you made me feel safe."
You turned to Yoongi, your gaze pleading for understanding, but he remained silent, his attempts to interject drowned out by the torrent of emotions pouring from your soul. "You have no idea what you mean to me," you whispered, the words a desperate plea for him to comprehend the depth of your gratitude and affection.
As you continued to spill your truths, years of pent-up emotions cascading forth, Yoongi's presence served as a silent witness to the turmoil within your heart.
"I love you, Yoongi," you whispered, your voice choked with emotion. "You've been like a brother to me, a constant source of support and companionship throughout the years. I never wanted to keep this from you, but when I left home, I was forced to make a promise—a promise to never reveal the truth, for fear of endangering those I care about."
Your hands trembled as you spoke, the weight of your secrets heavy upon your shoulders. "I couldn't bear the thought of putting you or Jimin in harm's way. You both mean too much to me."
Unintentionally, you released the immobilization spell, and within moments, you felt the comforting embrace of Yoongi's arms encircling you. He held you close, his own tears mingling with yours as you both found solace in each other's presence.
"I had no idea," Yoongi murmured against your hair, his voice thick with remorse. "I'm so sorry."
You continued to cry into his chest, the release of pent-up emotions overwhelming yet cathartic. Yoongi's gentle caresses soothed your frayed nerves, his warmth a balm to your troubled soul.
"Take deep breaths, and try to relax," he urged softly, his words a gentle reminder to ground yourself in the present moment.
Gradually, the storm of emotions subsided, leaving behind a sense of peace and understanding. Yoongi's eyes were red and teary, mirroring your own.
"I'm sorry," you said softly, wiping away the tears from your eyes. "It's okay if you don't want to be a part of my life anymore. I'll understand. The last thing I want is to hurt you or anyone else."
"Why wouldn't I want to be a part of your life anymore?" Yoongi's confusion was evident in his tone as he reached out to gently caress your cheek.
You lifted your gaze to the star-filled sky, a heaviness weighing on your heart. "Because I've lied to you all these years. I never told you the truth about who I really am."
Yoongi's touch remained gentle as he reassured you, "I don't think that's reason enough for me to walk away from you."
Hope flickered in your eyes as you gazed at him, his smile serving as a beacon of reassurance. "Really?" you questioned, a hint of disbelief lingering in your voice.
Yoongi nodded, tenderly wiping away the last traces of tears from your cheeks. "Let's go home," he suggested, extending his hand towards you. "You can explain everything to me there. I promise to listen to absolutely everything."
A smile tugged at your lips as you reached out and accepted his hand. "Alright," you agreed, the weight on your shoulders feeling lighter in the presence of his unwavering support.
Kang Hyung was a man proud of himself.
He loved attention and he loved being right.
Kang Hyung exuded an air of self-assurance as he made his way past the half-naked girls dancing on the bar and the leering office workers. He relished the attention, reveling in the approving gazes of the respectable women in the establishment.
Despite his conservative upbringing, which he found ironic given his current surroundings, Kang remained steadfast in his beliefs. He had been molded by generations of tradition within the esteemed Kang family, where mistakes were simply not tolerated.
Satisfied with the day's events, Kang ordered a drink and settled himself at the VIP table, where his loyal subordinates awaited him. Minjun, Yejun, and Seojun knew their boss well, considering him not only a superior but also a friend—or at least they endeavored to maintain that illusion. Kang's mercurial nature kept them on their toes, always striving to present themselves in the best possible light and to prove their usefulness.
But their apprehensions eased as they observed Kang's jubilant demeanor. "That stupid bitch never saw it coming!" Kang chuckled, a predatory gleam in his eyes. "You should have witnessed the shock on her face when she realized it was me!"
The trio of brothers mirrored their boss's smile, eager to bask in his approval. "She couldn't even conceal her astonishment," Kang continued, his satisfaction evident. "Even her worthless friends couldn't ignore her reaction."
In that moment, Kang felt invincible. His meticulously laid plans were finally coming to fruition, and he was on the brink of achieving everything he desired.
"Have you spoken to the priest?" Seojun dared to ask, earning a swift reprimand from his older brother, Minjun.
If the brothers were to rank intimidating individuals, the priest of the church of the night would undoubtedly claim the top spot, followed closely by his progeny, Kang, and then their cantankerous yet sinister grandfather.
"By Satan!" Kang exclaimed, his previously buoyant mood dampened. "Do not utter his name. I have no desire for his unwelcome presence here."
Seizing the opportunity to contribute, Yejun interjected, "But Hyung, shouldn't you inform him of your success in apprehending the Moon brat?"
Though Kang knew it was one of his father's directives, he couldn't muster an ounce of concern. "He does not require such information. I am in control here, and that is all that matters," he snapped, his irritation palpable. He despised being questioned, especially by his own subordinates.
In an attempt to alleviate the tension, Minjun, the eldest of the brothers, interjected, "What are your plans now, boss?" he inquired, idly toying with his drink.
Kang's smile returned, though it held a hint of mischief. "Oh, you have no idea,”
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