A Heart Of Gold.

Jungkook sat cross-legged on his plush couch, immersed in a colorful children's book. Bunbun, his beloved plushie, nestled beside him.

The door creaked open.

"Maid Soojin," Jungkook said, looking up with a warm smile.

"Laundry time," she snapped, gathering clothes.

As she approached Jungkook, her gaze fell upon him.

"Still playing with plushies?" Maid SooJin scoffed. "A grown man acting like a child. Pathetic."

Jungkook's eyes stung.

"Please, don't say that," he whispered.

Maid Soojin's tone turned venomous.

"You're an embarrassment to the realm. The Lord's toy, nothing more. What's the point of you?"

Tears trickled down Jungkook's cheeks.

"You don't understand," he pleaded.

Maid Soojin sneered.

"Understand what? Your weakness? Your dependency on others?"

Jungkook's voice trembled.

"I've been through things...you can't imagine."

Maid soojin's laughter cut deep.

"Poor Jungkook, always playing the victim. You're not special. You're just a plaything."

Jungkook's sobs intensified.

Maid Soojin continued.

"Grow up, Jungkook. Or are you incapable? You're a shame to the realm."

Jungkook begged desperately clasping his hands together.

"Stop...please."

Maid Soojin's words poured like acid.

"Shouldn't you be grateful? The Lord's favor keeps you safe. Without him, you'd be nothing."

Jungkook wept, Bunbun clutched tight.

Maid Soojin's voice dripped with malice.

"Maybe I should tell the Lord about your childish games. He'd be disgusted."

Jungkook's fear spiked.

"No...please don't."

Maid Soojin's smile twisted.

"I'll keep your secret...for now."

She lingered, her presence suffocating Jungkook.

Finally, she gathered the laundry.

"You're a disappointment, Jungkook."

With those parting words, Maid Soojin exited, leaving Jungkook shattered.

He wept, clutching Bunbun his sole comfort to his chest.

Seongho and the Lord must never know because he didn't want to burden them.

Maid Soojin's gaze often lingered on Lord Taehyung, her heart racing with forbidden desire. She craved his attention, his love and his touch.

But Taehyung's eyes were fixed on Jungkook since he arrived and Jin's admiration turned to resentment.

Why did Taehyung lavish affection on the young, fragile Jungkook?

Didn't he deserve a strong, capable partner like her?

Soojin's jealousy simmered.

She began to despise Jungkook because of his innocence, his beauty, his hold on Taehyung.

Soojin's anger grew.

"Why does he get to have everything?" she seethed,her words to Jungkook became venomous,a reflection of her own hidden pain.

Jungkook's Chambers

Jungkook collapsed onto his bed, Bunbun clutched tight. Heart-wrenching sobs shook his frame.

Seongho approached Jungkook's chambers, sensing something amiss. He knocked.

"Jungkook, open up!"

Only sobs replied.

Seongho's concern deepened.

"Jungkook, what's wrong? Let me in!"

The door remained shut.

Seongho hesitated, then decided to seek Taehyung.

Seongho knocked on the door of Taehyung's study and hearing a deep come in from inside,he opened the huge doors and appeared before Taehyung, who looked up from his papers.

"Lord, it's Jungkook. He's locked himself in his chambers, crying uncontrollably."

Taehyung's expression darkened.

"What happened?"

"I don't know, but he won't open the door. I've never seen him like this."

Taehyung's jaw clenched in anger and fury.

"I'll find out who's responsible."

Taehyung swiftly rose from his chair,his face etched with concern.

Here's the continuation:

Study

Taehyung swiftly rose from his chair, his face etched with concern.

"Seongho, I'll go to him. Let Captain Lee find out what happened."

Seongho bowed.

"Yes, my Lord."

Taehyung hastened to Jungkook's chambers.

Taehyung knocked gently on Jungkook's door so that he wouldn't be startled.

"Jungkook, open the door. It's me, Taehyung."

Sobs continued, muffled by the door.

Taehyung's heart ached.

"Jungkook, please. Let me in."

The door remained shut.

Taehyung's voice softened.

"I won't leave until you open the door. You're safe with me."

A pause, then the sound of locks shifting.

The door creaked open.

Jungkook's tear-stained face appeared and Taehyung's arms immediately enveloped him.

"Shh, I'm here. You're safe."

Jungkook buried his face in Taehyung's chest, clutching onto

Taehyung's hold tightened.

"Who hurt you, Bun? Tell me."

Jungkook's voice trembled.

"I-I just need you, Taetae."

Taehyung's expression softened.

"I'm here. You're safe now."

He guided Jungkook to the bed, cradling him.

"I won't leave your side."

Jungkook's tears slowly subsided.

Taehyung's gentle strokes soothed his hair.

"You're mine to protect, Koo."

As Taehyung held him, Jungkook's vulnerability surfaced.

"I feel so broken, Taetae," he whispered.

Taehyung's grip tightened.

"You're not broken, Bun. You're strong."

Jungkook's voice cracked.

"No one understands me...except you."

Taehyung's gentle fingers wiped away Jungkook's tears.

"I'll always understand you," he promised.

Jungkook's eyes locked onto Taehyung's.

"You don't think I'm...weak?"

Taehyung's expression softened slightly.

"Never, Jungkook. Your heart is your strength."

Jungkook's lips trembled.

Taehyung's thumb brushed against them.

"Shh, don't cry. I'm here."

As Taehyung's touch soothed him, Jungkook's tears slowed in Taehyung's arms, he found solace.

Captain Lee Junseong's Quarters

Seongho entered, closing the door behind him.

Junseong looked up from his papers, concern etched on his face.

"Hey, love. What's wrong?"

Seongho approached him, voice low.

"It's Jungkook. He broke down today. Lord Taehyung is with him now."

Junseong's expression turned serious.

"Tell me everything."

Seongho explained, his voice filled with worry.

"Jungkook wouldn't say what happened, but I sense it's more than just a simple issue. Taehyung's getting closer to him, and I fear for Jungkook's emotional well-being."

Junseong's eyes narrowed.

"I'll increase security, discreetly. We'll keep him safe."

Seongho nodded, grateful.

"You always know how to make me feel better, Jun."

Junseong's hand wrapped around Seongho's.

"I'll always be here for you, my love. And for Jungkook."

Seongho leaned into Junseong's touch.

"I know. That's why I love you."

Junseong's voice softened.

"And I love you, Seongho. Now, let's figure out what's going on with Jungkook."

Junseong's hand cradled Seongho's face, his thumb tracing gentle circles.

"I'm proud of you, Seongho. You care deeply for Jungkook."

Seongho's eyes softened.

"You make me feel seen, Jun. No one understands me like you."

Junseong's lips curved.

"That's because I love you, Seongho. Every part of you."

Seongho's heart swelled.

"I love you too, Jun. More with each passing day."

Junseong's eyes sparkled.

"Come here."

He pulled Seongho into a tender kiss.

As they embraced, Seongho's worries faded.

In Junseong's arms, he found solace.

Seongho's lips parted, Junseong's tongue exploring.

"Jun...oh God," Seongho moaned.

Junseong's hands gripped Seongho's hips.

"Mine," Junseong growled.

Seongho's fingers dug into Junseong's shoulders.

"Yours...always yours," Seongho whispered.

Junseong's mouth claimed Seongho's neck.

"Seongho...love you," Junseong murmured.

Seongho's head tilted, surrendering.

"Love you too...Jun," Seongho breathed.

They paused, foreheads touching.

Seongho's eyes cleared.

"Jungkook," Seongho whispered.

Junseong's expression sobered.

"The investigation," Junseong added.

Seongho stepped back, adjusting his clothing.

"We can't forget," Seongho said smiling sheepishly.

Junseong nodded.

"Let's review the case files," Junseong suggested.

Later,Taehyung summoned Junseong, his expression serious.

"Junseong, we need to discuss about Jungkook," Taehyung said.

Taehyung's eyes commanded attention.

"I'm aware of the situation, captain. I've been monitoring Jungkook's thoughts."

Junseong's brow furrowed.

"What have you found?"

Taehyung's voice took control.

"Maid Soojin is the culprit. But we must proceed cautiously."

Junseong leaned forward, receptive.

"Your plan, Lord Taehyung?"

Taehyung's instructions were clear.

"For now, keep an eye on Soojin. Discreetly. We don't know the extent of her connections."

Junseong nodded.

"I'll assign a trusted person."

Taehyung's gaze intensified.

"No, Captain. You'll handle this personally. I need someone I trust."

Junseong's expression turned resolute.

"I'll monitor Soojin closely."

Taehyung's approval was evident.

"Keep me updated. We'll act when the time is right."

Junseong acknowledged Taehyung's leadership.

"Understood, Taehyung."

.

.

.

.

Taehyung returned to Jungkook's chambers , concern etched on his face.

Jungkook lay motionless, his eyes vacant.

"Bun," Taehyung whispered, sitting beside him.

Jungkook's gaze didn't waver.

Taehyung gently grasped Jungkook's hand.

"Please, Bun. You need to eat. For me."

Jungkook's voice barely registered.

"I'm not hungry, Taetae."

Taehyung's grip tightened on him.

"Nonsense. You're starving. I can feel it."

Jungkook's eyes flickered, pain within.

Taehyung's voice softened.

"Let me help you, Bun. We'll face this together."

Jungkook's gaze met Taehyung's, a hint of trust.

Taehyung smiled.

"I'll bring food. Something light."

Jungkook nodded, a fragile agreement.

Taehyung's eyes cradled Jungkook's.

"I'm here. Always."

Taehyung stood, his eyes never leaving Jungkook's fragile form.

"Seongho!" Taehyung called out.

Seongho entered promptly.

"Have the maids prepare Kook's favorite dishes," Taehyung instructed. "Jjajangmyeon, kimchi stew, and hotteok"

Seongho nodded.

"I'll inform them. But, Taehyung, what about Maid Soojin?"

Taehyung's expression turned cautious.

"Ensure she's not involved in the preparation. We can't risk... contamination."

Seongho's eyes narrowed.

"Understood."

With a nod, Seongho departed to relay Taehyung's instructions.

Taehyung returned to Jungkook's side.

"Bun, your food is coming. Hang in there."

Jungkook's eyes flickered, a hint of anticipation

Jungkook's gaze locked onto Taehyung's.

"Tae, how did you know...about Maid Soojin ?" Jungkook asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Taehyung's expression turned gentle.

"I have my ways, Kook," Taehyung replied, evading the question.

Jungkook's eyes narrowed.

"No, Tae. Tell me. I never told you," Jungkook pressed.

Taehyung's shoulders sagged.

"Fine. I can read minds, Kook," Taehyung admitted.

Jungkook's eyes widened.

"You can...what?" Jungkook stuttered.

Taehyung nodded.

"I've always had this ability. I've been keeping it secret," Taehyung explained.

Jungkook's face contorted.

"You cheat!" Jungkook exclaimed.

With a sudden burst of energy, Jungkook swung his pillow at Taehyung.

Taehyung dodged, laughing.

"Hey, it's not funny!" Jungkook said.

Tears welled up in Jungkook's eyes.

"You read my mind without permission!" Jungkook accused.

Taehyung's expression softened.

"I only did it to protect you, Kook," Taehyung reassured.

Jungkook's pillow hit Taehyung again.

"You're still a cheat!" Jungkook repeated.

Taehyung caught the pillow.

"I'll make it up to you, I promise," Taehyung vowed.

Jungkook's gaze lingered.

"You better," Jungkook whispered.

Kitchen

Maid Choi expertly chopped vegetables.

"Has anyone seen Jungkook today?" Maid Kim asked.

Maid Park stirred the kimchi stew.

"Not since morning. His cherry voice has been silent," Maid Park noted.

Maid Choi raised an eyebrow.

"Unusual. He's always bouncing around the castle," Maid Choi said.

Maid Lee seasoned the jjajangmyeon.

"Do you think something's wrong?" Maid Hyeri asked.

Maid Kim's voice dropped.

"Rumors say Captain Junseong and Taehyung have been in closed meetings," Maid Kim whispered.

Maid Park's eyes sparkled.

"Scandal?" Maid Park teased.

Maid Choi frowned.

"Don't spread rumors. We don't know the truth," Maid Choi scolded.

Maid Hyeri carefully placed on a platter.

"Whatever it is, I hope Jungkook's okay. He's always so full of energy," Maid Hyeri said.

Maid Kim nodded.

"Let's focus on cooking. Jungkook's favorites might lift his spirits," Maid Kim encouraged.

As they worked, whispers continued.

"Taehyung's been protective lately..."

"Junseong's been stern..."

"I heard Maid Soojin acting strange..."

Their gossip-filled chatter filled the kitchen.

Meanwhile, Seongho entered.

"Is Jungkook's food ready?" Seongho asked.

Maid Choi smiled.

"Almost. We're adding the final touches," Maid Choi replied.

Seongho nodded.

"Good. Taehyung's waiting," Seongho said.

Seongho collected the dishes and headed to Jungkook's quarters.

Jungkook's eyes lit up as Seongho entered with the food.

"Tae, food's here!" Jungkook exclaimed.

Taehyung smiled.

"Time to eat, Koo."

Seongho carefully arranged the dishes.

"Jjajangmyeon, kimchi stew, and hotteok - all your favorites," Seongho said.

Jungkook's stomach growled.

Taehyung helped Jungkook sit up.

"Let's feed you," Taehyung whispered.

Jungkook's gaze met Taehyung's.

"Thanks, Taetae."

With Taehyung's support, Jungkook began eating.

Jungkook savored each bite, his eyes closing in bliss.

"Tae, this is amazing," Jungkook whispered.

Taehyung smiled.

"I'm glad you like it, Kook."

With each spoonful, Jungkook's strength returned.

The kimchi stew's spicy kick revived his senses,the jjajangmyeon's rich sauce soothing his soul and the hotteok's sweetness brought a smile.

Jungkook opened his eyes, gratitude shining.

"Thanks, Taetae. You always know how to make me feel better."

Taehyung's gaze softened.

"That's what I'm here for, Kook."

As Jungkook finished his meal, a sense of normalcy returned.

Jungkook's face lit up with excitement.

"Seongho-nim, thank you so much for the amazing food!" Jungkook exclaimed.

Seongho smiled.

"It was my pleasure, Jungkook. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

Taehyung watched, amused.

Suddenly, Jungkook's eyes sparkled mischievously.

With a sly grin, Jungkook stepped on Taehyung's foot.

"Ow!" Taehyung yelped.

Jungkook burst into laughter.

"Thanks, Taetae! You're always too calm!" Jungkook teased.

Before Taehyung could react, Jungkook sprinted out of the chambers.

"Kook, wait!" Taehyung called.

Jungkook's laughter echoed down the hallway.

He dashed into the kitchen, his energy infectious.

"Thank you, thank you!" Jungkook exclaimed, hugging Maid Choi.

The maids and cooks beamed with smiles.

"We're glad you liked the meal, Jungkook!" Maid Kim said.

Jungkook's eyes shone.

"You're the best! I'm so lucky!" Jungkook gushed.

As Jungkook continued thanking the staff, Taehyung entered the kitchen.

A hint of a smile played on Taehyung's lips.

Taehyung leaned against the kitchen doorway, observing Jungkook's joyful chaos.

Maid Lee giggled.

"Jungkook's energy is contagious!"

Taehyung's smile widened.

"He's back to his old self," Taehyung said.

Seongho approached Taehyung.

"Captain Junseong wants an update," Seongho whispered.

Taehyung nodded.

"I'll meet with him soon."

Jungkook, still thanking the staff, caught Taehyung's eye.

Taehyung raised an eyebrow.

"Koo, you've made your point. Time to calm down."

Jungkook grinned mischievously.

"Not yet, Taetae!"

Jungkook continued his whirlwind tour of the kitchen, spreading joy.

He sampled each dish, proclaiming them "masterpieces."

Maid Kim blushed.

"Jungkook, you're making us blush!"

Taehyung chuckled.

"Bun, you're going to make them think they're the only ones who can cook."

Jungkook winked at him playfully.

"Hey, Tae, don't be jealous. If you ever get to cook then I'll praise your cooking too."

Taehyung raised an eyebrow.

"I don't need praise, Bun. I just need you healthy."

Jungkook's grin softened.

"Thanks, Taetae. I'm feeling much better."

As Jungkook finished his kitchen tour, he skipped back to Taehyung.

Taehyung offered a mock-stern expression.

"Time for rest, Kook."

Jungkook pouted.

"But Tae, I'm not tired!"

Taehyung swooped in, scooping Jungkook into his arms.

"I'll carry you, then."

Jungkook's eyes widened as Taehyung lifted him effortlessly.

"Put me down, Tae!" Jungkook laughed.

The maids' eyes grew wide, their faces flushing.

"Oh my!" Maid Choi whispered.

"Did you see that?" Maid Kim squealed.

Maid Lee fanned herself.

"Taehyung's strength...and Jungkook's smile!"

The kitchen erupted into excited whispers.

"Those two...they're meant to be!" Maid Park cooed.

Seongho cleared his throat, hiding a smile.

"Ladies, focus."

But the maids couldn't tear their eyes from Taehyung and Jungkook.

As Taehyung carried Jungkook out, Maid Kim dared to ask:

"Seongho, ....are they...?"

Seongho's expression turned stern.

"That's none of our business."

But the maids exchanged knowing glances.

They'd seen the spark

Jungkook playfully pounded Taehyung's chest.

"Put me down, Tae! I can walk!" Jungkook laughed.

Taehyung's eyes crinkled.

"You're still recovering, Kook."

Jungkook's grin turned mischievous.

"Recovering from what? Your mind-reading skills?"

Taehyung chuckled.

"Among other things."

As they approached Jungkook's quarters, Taehyung gently set him down.

Jungkook's eyes sparkled.

"Thanks for the ride, Tae."

Taehyung smiled.

"Anytime, Kook."

Jungkook entered his quarters, Taehyung following.

Captain Junseong knocked on Jungkook's door.

"Enter," Taehyung called.

Junseong's expression turned serious.

"Update on the investigation: Maid Soojin's actions seem solo."

Taehyung's eyes narrowed.

"Motive?"

Junseong hesitated.

"It appears...she's infatuated with you, Lord Taehyung."

Jungkook's brow furrowed.

"What? That's ridiculous!"

Taehyung's face remained calm.

"Continue, Captain."

Junseong nodded.

"Maid Soojin's journal revealed obsessive thoughts. She believed eliminating Jungkook would clear the way for her."

Jungkook's eyes widened at the reason while Taehyung's gaze dropped.

"I had no idea."

Junseong's voice turned stern.

"She'll face consequences and we must ensure your safety, Jungkook.

Taehyung nodded and waved for him to leave.

After JunSseong's departure,Taehyung fed Jungkook sweet pastries Seongho had brought earlier, their laughter filling the room.

"Time for your nap, Kook," Taehyung said, gently.

Jungkook pouted cutely.

"No, Taetae. I want to play."

Taehyung chuckled deeply.

"Later, promise."

After settling Jungkook, Taehyung summoned the guards.

"Summon the Web of Factions. It's time to address Soojin's actions."

_The Web of Factions Assemble_

The grand courtroom filled with esteemed members of the Web of Factions.

Taehyung's voice boomed.

"Soojin, you're accused of harming Prince Jungkook with your words. Bring her forth."

Soojin's defiant gaze met Taehyung's.

"I merely spoke the truth," Soojin spat bitterly.

Taehyung's expression turned cold.

"Your words cut deep, Soojin. You'll face the consequences."

_Meanwhile, in the Kitchen,Jungkook slipped into the kitchen, seeking water.

Maids whispered among themselves.

"Min-ji, did you hear? Maid Soojin's in trouble for hurting Jungkook's feelings," Maid Hye-jin said.

Maid Ji-hyun nodded.

"Yes, and Lord Taehyung's furious. He's invoking the ancient laws to punish her."

Maid Soo-young shuddered.

"I wouldn't want that fate. Soojin was always harsh with her words."

Maid Hye-jin leaned in.

"I heard Jungkook's been devastated since her outburst but he's just trying to appear cheerful as always. Lord Taehyung wants justice for his Jungkook."

Maid Ji-hyun whispered.

"The Web of Factions will decide her punishment. Rumors say it'll be severe."

Jungkook's eyes widened in horror.

The glass slipped from his hands, shattering on the stone floor.

The maids spun around.

"Prince Jungkook! You shouldn't be here!" Maid Ji-hyun exclaimed.

"What are you doing, Jungkook?" Maid Hye-jin asked, worried.

Jungkook rushed out, determined.

"Stop! You can't punish her that severely! She was just angry!"

Servants chased after him.

" Jungkook, please! You can't interrupt the meeting! It's forbidden!" Maid Soo-young cried.

Jungkook burst into the courtroom, his eyes welling up with tears.

"Taehyung, please! Don't punish Soojin!" Jungkook begged, rushing to Taehyung.

Everyone's eyes widened in shock.

Taehyung's expression turned stern.

"Kook, this is no place for you. Seongho, take him to his chambers."

Seongho approached, but Jungkook evaded him.

Jungkook grasped Taehyung's legs, pouting cutely.

"Please, Taetae! Forgive Soojin! She's sorry!" Jungkook sobbed.

Taehyung's resolve wavered.

The Web of Factions murmured amongst themselves.

"Your Majesty, this is most unbecoming," Lord Kim said.

"Justice must be served," Lord Lee added.

Soojin, sensing hope, fell to her knees.

"Thank you, Jungkook! I'll do anything!"

Taehyung's gaze shifted between Jungkook and Soojin.

After a moment's deliberation, Taehyung nodded.

"Very well, Bun. I accept your request."

Guards escorted Soojin out, issuing a stern warning and the other servants and guards left too.

The Web of Factions also members departed, their faces etched with disapproval,only Taehyung and Jungkook remained in the room.

Taehyung lifted Jungkook into his arms.

"Why did you intervene, Bun?" Taehyung asked gently.

"I didn't want Soojin to suffer, Taetae," Jungkook sniffled, wiping away tears.

"Everyone makes mistakes. I want her to learn from hers."

Taehyung's eyes softened.

"You're too kind, Koo."

Jungkook's gaze met Taehyung's.

"I learned from you, Taetae. You always protect me."

Taehyung's heart swelled.

"I'll always protect you, Koo. And now, you're protecting others."

Taehyung's arms tightened around Jungkook.

"I'm proud of you."

Taehyung smiled mischievously.

"Bun, you're too kind. I think you'd forgive even the grumpiest bear."

Jungkook grinned.

"Maybe, but only if the bear promises to hug me!"

Taehyung chuckled.

"You're impossible, Koo."

Jungkook's eyes sparkled.

"Impossible? That's your job, Taetae!"

Taehyung's laughter rumbled.

"Oh, really?"

Taehyung's fingers danced across Jungkook's sides.

"Tickle monster, activate!"

Jungkook shrieked, giggling uncontrollably.

"Ahahah! Taetae, stop! Stop!"

The courtroom echoed with Jungkook's joyful laughter.

Taehyung's eyes shone with delight.

"Your laughter is music to my ears, Bun."

In the kitchen, the maids gathered, their faces aglow.

"Did you hear? Jungkook saved Soojin," Maid Hye-jin whispered.

Maid Ji-hyun nodded.

"His heart is pure gold."

Maid Soo-young smiled.

"I know, right? He forgave Soojin despite everything."

Maid Min-ji chimed in.

"And Lord Taehyung's love for him is undeniable even though it hasn't started blossoming yet."

The maids exchanged knowing glances.

"We're blessed to serve in this kingdom," Hye-jin said.

Ji-hyun nodded.

"Under Lord Taehyung and Jungkook's care, our kingdom will flourish."

As they returned to their tasks, their faces reflected their admiration for Jungkook's compassion.

As the guards escorted Soojin back to her quarters, her facade crumbled.

"Jungkook...that naive fool," Soojin seethed inwardly.

"He thinks forgiving me will change everything?"

Soojin's eyes blazed with resentment.

"It won't erase the shame he brought upon me."

Under house arrest for two weeks, Soojin's anger simmered.

"I'll show Jungkook....the true meaning of regret."

Soojin's determination hardened.

"My revenge will be sweet."

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