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alittlemelody716 · 2 years

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Another Forever After: Story Of An Extra pt. 1

Thank you to my beta reader, @Blondie4404!

Ever After High

The school for the children of fairy tales, where the next generation pledges to follow the footsteps of their parents. However, not everyone wishes to follow their predetermined stories, wishing instead to write their own. Such wishes split the children of the fairytales into two main groups: the royals and the rebels. Those wanting their destinies became Royals and those who wanted to write their own, Rebels.

Meet Marinette Dupain-Cheng, the daughter of Claire, the baker’s daughter in the tale Beauty and the Beast. Her destiny is to learn how to use her creativity with the help from Belle once the tale restarts. A small destiny, one that is only fulfilled after the main story has ended.

Next to her is Marc Anciel, the child of the Librarian in Beauty and the Beast. Due to this, they are incredibly intelligent and skilled in writing, depicting beautiful stories with their words. Despite not having a large role, they are still required to attend Ever After High.

Marinette and Marc are side characters, they do no more than speak a couple lines and are easily forgettable. It’s why in the conflict between Royals and Rebels, in the neutral party known as Roybels. It’s a fitting title, a faction that was created after the enrollment of Poppy O’Hair the previous year.

----

Marinette opened the door to her dorm room to see the room split in half. One side was painted white with pink polka dots and flowers, while the other side was crimson red with moon decals as well as fencing equipment on the walls.

“Marinette, nice to see you again” greeted Kagami.

Kagami Tsurugi is the daughter of Princess Kaguya. Like the other Rebels, Kagami isn’t content with her story. She wants to fight and grow stronger, not remain as a princess who will return to the moon and never see her friends again.

“It’s great to see you again Kagami,” Marinette smiled, “It’s already Legacy Year, it’s a little nerve-wracking.”

“Agreed, I had always hoped this day would never come, but it seems it’s unavoidable.”

Giving Kagami a sad smile, Marinette grabbed the luggage she brought and placing them on the floor. Kagami had already finished setting up her side of the room, so she went to help Marinette set up her side of the room.

“We have rehearsals tomorrow after classes, do you think you’re ready?” Marinette asked while throwing pillows on her bed.

“Even if it’s only practice, I wouldn’t wish to go through it. My mother will be furious with me, but I want to pursue fencing. Being a quiet princess doesn’t suit me” Kagami laments.

“I suppose it doesn’t,” Marinette laughed, “who knows, maybe the book will make an exception and you’ll be the first ever sword-wielding Princess Kaguya”

“Wouldn’t that be nice” Kagami smiled.

The two continued to talk as they finished setting up their dorms before heading out for dinner in the castleteria.

“Marinette! Kagami! Over here!” A voice called.

It was Rose Lavillant, a garden fairy from Pixie Hollow. She’s at Ever After High to learn the best way to be a garden fairy and wants to help change the seasons when she grows up. Currently, Rose is using a spell to change her physical size to fit in with the other students.

Next to her was Luka and Juleka Couffaine, the children of a pirate from Captain Hook’s crew. Luka’s a senior and had already signed the Storybook of Legends. Juleka never really cared much about the Royal and Rebel debate, since Luka would take after their father, and she was free to choose her own destiny. The worst she could become was a lackey, which was better than Captain Hook or any other villain.

Kagami and Marinette made their way over at Rose’s call, joining the table and spotting Marc who they called over. Dinner was relatively peaceful, chatting about their summers and which classes they had, until they heard a voice from the next table over.

“It’s not fair! Because of her I may never get my happily ever after! I can’t believe she would do this, she’s just jealous I get to marry the prince and become queen in our tale!”

It was Lila Rossi, daughter of Snow White from Snow White and Rose Red. Almost the exact opposite of the original Snow White (who was shy and enjoyed being inside and doing housework or reading), Lila was bold and hated doing chores around the house. Even so, she truly believed in following destinies and tended to look down on the ones who didn’t share the same opinion.

Marc groaned and Kagami rolled her eyes. Juleka let out an exasperated sigh while Marinette and Luka shared a tired look. Rose looked extremely concerned and quickly left the table to comfort Lila.

“I know Rose is just being nice, but do you think she might be too trusting?” Marc asked.

“It’s in her nature as a fairy to trust people. No pun intended,” Marinette replied, “Besides it’s not like there is anything wrong with wanting to follow your destiny. It’s just… Lila’s reasoning is a bit…”

The next Rose Red, Elisa, was a rebel. At the end of their story, Rose Red marries the brother of the Bear Prince and becomes a Duchess, which would tie her down and force them to have to follow the harsh rules of society. She wouldn’t be able to play outside and spend her days in the woods. Unlike the bigger named legacies, high society wouldn’t forgive a character from a smaller tale for preferring to be out in the woods instead of following their ideas of a perfect lady. She may be allowed to now as she has the status of a princess, but once her tale ends, that privilege would no longer be there.

Lila didn’t care. She always bragged about being the next Snow White, being a princess, and how she’s related to the other, more famous Snow White and Apple White through her father. No one really knew if it was true or not, they couldn't ask Apple White about such a thing. Her destiny is everything to her and she doesn’t care about her cousin, the future Rose Red.

“I find that it’s easier to ignore it. I’d rather not have to fight my friends on the topic of following destinies. It may be easy for us since our roles are so small, but for those like Kagami, it’s a big decision” Luka stated.

“Enough dwelling on that, it’s a new chapter. No need to think about this kind of thing on our first day” Juleka interrupted.

“True, hopefully nothing serious happens at the Legacy Day rehearsals tomorrow. I fear one mishap will cause half the student body to flip their crowns” Marinette sighed, resting her chin on her hand.

They all returned to their meals, dropping the conversation on destiny and the royal vs rebel conflict. Afterwards, Marinette returned to her dorm with Kagami with a bad feeling about the next day.

“Oh Hat-tastic! Another one! Hi new narrator! Have you met Brooke yet?”

Maddie! Wait, don’t break the fourth wall!

Tag List:

@the-witches-you-couldnt-burn

@folk-ever-lore

@nightlychaotic

@shamrockace

#maribat #ever after high #it's a crossover not an au #but the eah characters are barely here #ever wondered about the side characters in eah?#snow white and rose red is a different story from snow white and the seven dwarfs #mulberry melody #another forever after

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rain-herb · 5 months

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It's kind of crazy to think about the fact that there is an official AU in which Rei and Koga promised to spend their lives together and Rei came back to the world of living after his death because he missed Koga... like man

#this is about merc reikoga btw #i had Not expected to cry over some crossover story when i read it for the first time but well #some of the lines were genuinely so well written #and tbh merc!rkg has clear parallels with canon storyline rkg #melodis choosing to stay with this dude that cared for him away from everyone else #attacking people to regain the stone (that contained the essence of reku's soul probably)#and rei comforting melodis and referring to au!rei as 'the person who you loved and the person who loved you'#*clenches fist*#reikoga #herb.txt

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toasty-self-shipping · 1 year

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boyfriend telling cici pico was his ex after week 3 would be so damn funny because he though she was going to get mad but her only reaction would be like this 🤨🏳️‍🌈?

#gotta put that in my mod au story #ship: melody to my heart #fnf self insert #my self inserts

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otterlyotterott · 11 months

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ahhh shit here we go again

#for anyone reading my wof band au fic the song that they're going to play at the first concert is set to the melody of this #it's also like #the entire thematic basis for the whole story #200 dollars that this is going to be at the top of my songs on spotify wrapped

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imoonblaze · 1 year

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🌸Tmoas!Dodi and AU belong to @imoonblaze 🌸Dodi belong to Bimbo

Otro dibujo de Dodi arpia 🥰 ahora cambie la forma de la cola 😅

#Olocoons #Themelodyofastoryau #TheMelodyOfaStoryAU #The Melody of a Story AU #AU

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ask-the-koopa-family · 2 years

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Bowser jr and Melody story: Heartbreak

Bowser jr and Melody met at school and became friends, when they first met Jr was kinda a jerk but time passed and they became friends, they started to hang out play with each other and Melody met Jr's family. But Jr and Melody felt something, it was a feeling but they didn't know what it was, eventually they find out and they couldn't belive it but they it was true... or at least it was.

Bowser jr and Melody are teenagers, Melody started a band with her friends from school and there popular but not famous just yet, however one of them was different that was Jake Koopa, Jake is a koopa just like Mel and he's the sam age as her, they met each other at school and now there a part of a band, but something happened Melody was starting to have a crush on Jake and the same thing was hapening to Jake with Melody. Jr was suporting Melody and her band but he was spending less time with her, but that doesn't they didn't spend time togheter they still did but not as much, one day Jr asked Mel out and she accepted, when the time came Jr asked Mel to be his girlfriend and sead how much he loves her, but Mel sead that she can't, Jr asked why can't she and Mel responded saying that she's in love with someone ells and that her and Jr aren't meant for each other, Jr was shocked and heartbroken and Jr tryed to convince her to choose him, be with him but Mel sead she's sorry and she can't be with Jr. After that Mel left leaving Jr in tears, when Mel came home Jake was there waiting for her that's when he noticed that Mel was crying and talked her about it and Mel explained what happened, Jake wqs suprised by what she sead, but then Mel sead something that shocked him the most, Mel sead that she's in love with someone and that someone is Jake, Jake was shocked but happy and then he tolled her that he loves her, Mel was shocked and happy, right before Mel felt for her grand tour she revealed that she has a boyfiend and that it's Jake, everyone was happy for except for Jr how was sad and angry, but kept his cool and sead Mel goodbye when it was time to Mel to go.

After Mel left Jr was angry and heartbroken, he started be more agresive and one when Bowser and Bowser Jr were having one of there arguments Jr accidently injured Bowser and that's how Bowser got his scar (now yes Bowser does have a scar in for future but I don't know how he got it, but I decided in this story Bowser got it from Jr) Jr and Cheery were both shocked, Jr tryed to his dad but Cheery tolled him to not touch him since she thinks that he'll do something to him, after that Bowser and Jr spoke with each other again. One day Mel came back from her grand tour and everyone was happy for her except for Jr how's kinds mad that her for not choosing him but he kept his cool and act like nothing was wrong, after that a few months passed and Jr heared that Jake and Mel had an argument, this was his opurtunitie to have Mel to be his girlfriend and so Jr talk to Mel, after they talked Jr asked if Mel would like to go out and Mel accepted, when it was time Jr sead that he can make her happy and that she doesn't need Jake and sead what Mel didn't want to hear, he sead that to be with him, be his girlfriend ect, but Mel stood up and sead no and then Mel started to tell Jr her true feelings that Jr's just a friend and that she loves Jake not him and that if Jr doesn't stop this she won't talk to him again, Jr was shocked and asked Mel why, but Mel sead because it's true and she left, Jr was crying from sadness and anger, he was depressed and he didn't know what to do.

5 years later

Melody anounced that she's going to marry Jake and wants all of her friends to come, everyone was happy and invited, one of them was Jr how was invited to the weeding but wasn't happy, he was furrious and sad, he had enough and got a poisunous mushroom that he found a few months ago, when the weeding came Jr didn't want to go and ate the poisunous mushroom, he started to feel pain and started dying and finally he sead why before he died. After Melody's and Jake's weeding Melody asked where was Jr and the koopa family didn't know but when Bowser, Cheery and Cleo came home they saw Jr's dead body on the floor, they were shocked and they think that this is a prank but it wasn't, after they knew it was true they started crying and there was a funeral for Bowser Jr whitch everyone came, after the funeral was over Melody stayed and put a flower on Jr's grave and she was sad and started to cry.

Years later

There's a new heir to the koopa thorne (but I don't know how it could be Cleo but she's a half koopa and Ludwig but he's not Bowser's real son), as for Melody she has two kids with Jake a daughter and a son named after Bowser Jr, one day when Meloy was alone she thinking about everything that happened up this point and she that maybe she should have chose Jr over Jake, after they were best friends and she did had a crush on him, maybe Jr was right about choosing him to her boyfriend and she's sorry.

THE END

I know it was kinda sad and dark and the reason is because this story was actually the seconde story I made about BJ and Mel, the first one was the BJxMel love story, the point is I made this story because it's more of a what if story where Mel would choose Jake over Jr and in my opinion if Mel did choose Jake over Jr and marryed him then Jr would be depressed and would then die because he doesn't want to see Mel and Jake togheter, but that's my story and opinion and I'm sorry if there's a problem 😔

((Oh shi- i know its dark and REALLY SAD but I LOVED IT😅

Good job !! (Even its sad... yes...😭)

But in my opinion Jr wouldnt kill himself.... yes he would be very sad.. even depressed but not like this

#story #sad #au #bowser je #melody koopa #koopa ox #jake koopa #koopa oc

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peachesofteal · 6 months

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Light on - single mom/neighbors au Simon Riley/female reader

The hallway creaks under his feet.

The floorboards talk to him, tell him stories, narrating the tread worn in the carpet, countless steps tracked up and down, past his door at all hours of the day and night.

Past yours.

He notices your light is on when he gets in, warm yellow glow spilling out from your back door, illuminating your hunched figure perched on your little metal chair, glow from an e-reader spilling across your face. A mix of the light from your living room, the shimmer of the moon, and the white, soft incandescence of your book bathes you in a gleam of angelic color, celestial reflection of what he believes may already be half true.

Sweet angel.

“Up late?” He asks over the balcony divider, and you squint at him, eyes adjusting in the pale darkness.

“Emma’s been on a weird schedule. Couldn’t go back to sleep after I put her back down an hour ago.” His hands slide into his pockets, a natural reflex, and he nods, the movement expected against the emptiness that greets his fingers. He wants a cigarette. Craves it, but intentionally left them inside.

He doesn’t think you like it, the smoking. And for some unsettling reason, he cares what you think.

The monitor crackles alive with the sound of hoarse cry, high pitch and sharp, and you excuse yourself, slipping inside to answer Emmaline’s distraught wails.

He leans against his side of the railing, mind wandering to his schedule for tomorrow, an on base meeting that’s sure to be irritating, followed by a training evaluation that he’s been putting off for far too long.

The monitor’s lights flare, picking up noise, and his mind screams to a halt when the speaker starts to vibrate with your voice.

“Hey, little sweet. Shhh, shhh, I know. You’re such a sleepy girl, aren’t you?” You hum something, a melody of some kind that he can’t place, and Emma makes soft little noises, prompting you to talk to her every time they start to tick upwards into a cry. “It’s okay, it’s okay. Mum’s here. I’m right here.” He stands, transfixed, frozen, listening, eavesdropping, to every little sound, hanging on every word like you're feeding him crumbs of your soft, soothing voice and Emmaline’s sleepy, grumpy coos.

When you reappear back on the balcony ten minutes later, it’s with the baby against your chest, her chubby little arms and legs tucked into a blanket, wrapped up like burrito, sweet little face peeking over the fleece lining. “Someone,” you rub her back, “is not keen on going back to sleep.” She’s wide eyed, wide awake, and you step closer to his side, his hand automatically going out to rub a thumb against her cheek.

“What’s wrong, baby girl, not goin’ let mum get any rest tonight?” You smile softly, gaze sweet and gentle when it bounces between his face and hers.

“Afraid not.” You lean forward, brushing your lips against the crown her head. “She’s pretty unhappy unless she’s being held, lately.” He feels for you, can see how tough it must be, how tired you are, and a fire fueled yearning enflames throughout him, desire and desperation battling against his self-control, his logical mind.

You sigh, swaying slightly with her, trying to rock her into a sleepy state, and he’s content to stay outside with you, watching. Enjoying the way you lean into your instincts, your motherhood, soft edges complemented by sharp ones, your baby safe and slipping into a dream from your arms something that he can’t not marvel at. It doesn’t take long for her to be completely out, and you release a long sigh of relief.

“Alright, time to try again.” You whisper, and he nods, catching a whiff of your shampoo as you turn to head inside with a whisper, coconut and lavender nearly making him dizzy. “Goodnight, Simon.”

“Goodnight.”

#peaches writes #light on #Simon Riley x reader #simon ghost riley x reader #Simon Riley #simon ghost riley

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kookslastbutton · 2 months

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Guilty Pleasures ༓ jjk, kth (m) | chapter ii

✒ Summary: Three years of being Seoul's power couple earns you nothing but a big fat divorce settlement and your face plaster on every gossip column around town. You're angry, hurt, and desperately want to move on, but worst of all? You're still in love with the man who started the whole mess, even though the most he can ever see you as is a friend. The renowned actor you've hired to be your company's new endorser seems to have a soft spot for you though. He's easy on the eyes, you'll admit, but who actually wants a divorcee like yourself? It's unrealistic really.

pairing: ex-husband ceo!jungkook x ceo!reader, actor!taehyung x ceo!reader

genre/AU: angst, smut, fluff, loverstoexesto ?, coworkers2?, unrequited love

Word count: 4.5k

Warnings: oc and jk are both 30, Taehyung is 32, swearing, fighting, confrontation, tornado of emotions, mentions of alcohol consumption, mentions of sexism in the media and business world, public shaming (both direct and indirect), morally grey characters, mentions of toxic relationships, mentions of abandonment issues, mentions of therapy, attempts to self-regulate but reader is pissed, mentions of self-blame though oc knows its not entirely her fault, mentions of defamation charges, JK is just 🤬 while KTH is 😇

playlist: Unkiss Me, Apologize, Hate That I Love You, etc.

a/n: Woah okay....so had I fun writing this, even though it took me a hella long time to decide whether to continue the story as a series or not 🫣 Anyway I altered the summary slightly from chapter one (and updated for consistency purposes), but it doesn't change my overall plans! As you read this chapter, I hope you will be able to see my vision (I'm nervous af! haha)! Enjoy 🥰 (edited but pls forgive me for any oversights...my typos are ridiculous)

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You’re seated in a wide sofa chair, surrounded by four blank walls, and the gentle sound of water tricking from a faux rock waterfall. Every element of the space is carefully integrated as a means to calm you. Yet it doesn't calm you in the slightest. Your hands are clammy. Muscles tense with the adrenaline spiking through your veins. It doesn’t help that you’ve been running on nothing but black coffee all week either, refusing to eat until the first promo shoot with your company’s new endorser was launched.

A natural in front of the camera, Kim Taehyung was able to speed the process up, yet it didn’t stop the massive dark circles from forming under your eyes. This morning, he'd told you they were unnoticeable but you've seen how you look in the mirror, and they're anything but unnoticeable. Still, you find his gesture to soothe sweet. Thankfully, your new partnership has been smooth sailing which is quite a blessing considering the disaster he nearly walked into.

Yes. You’re referring to that disaster in particular. When, in some desperate last-minute attempt for validation, you threw yourself into the arms of your ex-husband.

More like fixed the collar of his shirt and whoops, slid right on his dick…again.

What is wrong with you?

You’ve been asking yourself the question far too many times. You’d think being a hot-shot CEO of a million-dollar tech company would make you like titanium, resilient as finely pounded steel but no; you're just barely keeping yourself together. You regret your rash decision that day, you regret ever marrying Jeon Jungkook, and you regret ever giving in to your stupid feelings.

That’s why you’re here now, waiting in the office of your therapist’s private practice, hands restless in your lap. You’ve been seeing Melody for just over two months since your divorce was finalized, ready to move on; trying to, more like.

‘JeonX CEO Jeon Jungkook’s ex-wife compensated $1.8 billion in divorce’

‘South Korea’s Golden It couple split with ex-wife taking half the company revenue’

These are the lovely words that greet you from your phone screen.

You have the urge to grab your special red ballpoint pen from your bag and scribble out the entire paragraph, except it’s not a printed gossip magazine— it’s a newspaper column on the internet. Instead, you close out the pesky tab on your phone and reply to its sender.

Chim 🐥: can you believe this crap they’re saying about you?! It's no shit you were given a hefty divorce settlement. You brought in half the income! They’re making you look like some kind of gold digger. I swear if I ever lay my eyes on that pretty ex-husband of yours, I will end him! 😡 [sent at 5:06 pm]

Park Jimin, your childhood best friend, sends you a follow-up text when you don’t immediately reply to the news articles he forwarded over. He’s been extremely overprotective of you lately and especially pissed at how the media’s been portraying you, while Jungkook is seemingly getting a free ride. He’s always had an axe to grind with your ex-husband, to be honest, the divorce gives him only more reason to hate him.

You: Thanks for your concern Chim, but nothing they say surprises me anymore. If you don’t mind, can you stop sending these to me? [sent at 5:12 pm]

You hope your message doesn’t read as cold or dismissive. Jimin’s concern for you is a light in a dark place, but you don’t really want to be reminded of the amount of slandering articles still targeted towards you.

Gone are the days when the public saw you as a powerful woman in business, the one to watch, or the CEO of the fastest-growing startup in the last ten years. You're now simply Jeon Jungkook’s conniving ex-wife; as if you’ve merely seduced him for his money and ran when the going was good.

Of course, the whole situation is skewed to his side; half the world is in love with him after all, and that includes the few lingering reporters who've been practically salivating three feet from you at any given chance, hoping to get an exclusive “inside look”. Your marriage was a sham, you wanted to scream, a mutual business transaction.

Too bad rather than an increase in status, resources, and market share, you gained a pile of twisted, unwarranted emotions and regrets.

“I apologize for the wait Ms. __."

The door swings open as your therapist rushes into the room. She stops at her desk to retrieve last week’s session notes, then takes a seat in the chair adjacent to you with crossed legs.

“It’s okay,” you assure, straightening your posture. “I understand how crazy busy the day can get. It wasn't a long wait anyway."

Melody gives a small smile and jots a few words on her notepad. “Thank you for understanding. How are you doing this week?”

You take a deep breath. "Tired," you respond, "especially this week at work. It's like as soon as I wrap up one project, there's another jumping out from nowhere." You used to be ahead of the game. Now you're barely surviving.

"That's right," she hums. "Last week you mentioned having to attend a charity gala soon. Would you like to start there today?"

Crap, you're suddenly reminded that you have to pick up your gown by 7 pm tonight. You entertained the idea of not going to the gala at all, but that would do you no favors in the end. Given your situation, you can't skip out on such an important charity event.

"Sure," you nod. "The Winter Gala's tomorrow night, actually. It's funny how I used to look forward to it every year, being an opportunity to network and catch up with my peers. I can't say I feel the same thrill this time around."

"Because of the divorce you mean?"

"Exactly. Being the CEO of one of the largest software corporations in the world, my ex-husband's influence far exceeds my own. So whether out of loyalty or political agenda, anyone who's anyone will be on his side of the room. I'm gonna end up being that one awkward person in the corner in a far too expensive Dior gown who no one wants to dance with." You nervously chuckle out the last sentence.

Melody opens her mouth to respond, yet stops when she notices you're not quite finished.

"It'll be the first time seeing my ex-husband after months of no contact too. I guess that's what I'm looking forward to the least."

When you think about it, the most you've seen of Jungkook is his face appearing on the massive screens downtown. He's been featured in at least a dozen interviews lately, teasing a brand-new product his company's planning to release in the spring. Seems he's doing well.

"What you feel is valid Ms. __." Melody seeks to assure you. "In the past, you used to go to these events with Jungkook right? He provided you with a sense of safety, as you did for him, no doubt. I wonder if it's a lack of consistency and belonging that worries you, more than it is about seeing your ex-husband and your peers. Companionship too, of course."

"I suppose that makes sense, but it never used to be this way." Your voice raises to match your sudden argumentativeness. "I used to be very comfortable in my own skin. I used to be confident going to these events alone, long before Jungkook came into the picture."

You pause to take a breath before continuing.

"When Jungkook became CEO of his family's software company, JeonX, he was steps away from being bought out by both our competitors, so a partnership was proposed. We married at 27 as nothing more than two ambitious, rising leaders in business. Neither of us was after love or romance when our careers were at stake."

"But then that changed for you," your therapist carefully observes. "Combined, you both held the largest share of the tech market. You and Jungkook were also in an extremely intimate relationship, yet treated it as a business contract. Unfortunately, those don't always come out clean in the wash. It appears to me that while you gave him three honest years of your life, he stole those three years from you."

The words take a moment to sink in; Jungkook stole three years from you. It conflicts with what you want to believe, though from the bottom of your heart, you know she's right.

"I feel so...guilty. I hate that I fell for him, and I hate that I'm struggling this much to let him go." As you tear up, Melody hands you a tissue from the side table with an empathetic gaze. You mouth a thank you and gently dab your eyes with the soft fabric.

"I'd give yourself some grace Ms. __. But if I may ask, what about Jungkook?" she gently probes. "Do you think he feels the same?"

"No...," you say with remorse, shaking your head. "He's moved on."

Melody remains silent for as long as you need in the moments following, cautious to follow your lead. The last thing a therapist should do is rush their patient through the session, so she sits patiently and waits for your go.

"Sorry," you finally say. "We should continue."

"No need for apologies," she replies. "Take your time."

It takes a good minute or two longer of sitting in your car before you can fully compose yourself. As usual, your session with Melody was intense and insightful, but it was far too short. You're gripping the wheel with both hands when her final words of the session echo through your head: "Give yourself some grace; blaming yourself won't do any good."

Seemingly simple advice, yet tough to follow when you constantly feel responsible for the mess you're in. Yes, even though Jungkook has the bigger end of the stick, you made your share of mistakes too. You should have looked into other options when you found out your competitors were looking to buy out JeonX instead of eloping with their CEO.

Just what were you thinking __? you harshly scold yourself. You were trying to protect your company. You both were. Too bad you placed the cart in front of the horse.

Forcing yourself to take a slow, deep breath, your eyes widen in alarm when you catch the time on the clock— 6:38 pm. Fuck! The boutique that's holding your gown for tomorrow's gala is closing in twenty minutes. Without a moment to spare, you yank the seatbelt and slam your foot on the gas.

"Good evening Ms. __." A young woman, fitted in a black pencil skirt and white blouse, greets you with a faint bow as soon as you step foot into the posh boutique.

"Hello, Hana," you refer to the young lady by name with a smile. "I'm terribly sorry to be coming in this late. I came by to pick up the gown I sent in for alterations two weeks ago. The event's tomorrow and I know the shop will be closed for the day."

Knowing the exact dress you're referring to, Hana responds with a soft tone, "Please don't worry Ms. __. We have the gown ready." She disappears to the back of the shop to retrieve it.

As you wait, your mind drifts to memories of last year's gala. You had worn a vibrant, gold gown that evening, slightly risky with a low neckline. Jungkook liked it though, as he wore a matching gold vest himself. You can imagine how crazy the press went when you both set foot on the scene, arms linked and appearing to have coordinated your attire perfectly.

Every investor at the gig wanted to be your friend that night, anxiously pushing through the crowds to speak to you. One of them nearly split your dress in two, as he had accidentally stepped on your gown after one too many drinks. You recall Jungkook scolding the man before turning his full attention to you, making sure you were alright. You consider this to be the first time you truly started looking at him as your husband, a feeling of warmth blooming inside you.

How foolish you were to let that feeling grow.

You're attending the gala alone this year, without him.

Possessing no desire to call attention to yourself this year, you've chosen a rich, navy blue gown instead. It's subtle yet sophisticated. Made out of the finest silk, its silhouette is sleek and falls straight down to the floor without any extravagant frills. The neckline is simple too, paired with a tasteful open back. There are no flashy accessories or embellishments, just a straightforward, classic design. You find the gown beautifully elegant, and nowhere near as bold as your previous one.

"Here it is Ms. __," Hana chips from afar, her heels clacking against the polished floor tiles. In her hand is a generously sized garment bag, your dress flowing underneath.

"Thank you so much, Hana," you say, taking the gown from her hand. "Again, I'm sorry for my tardiness picking this up. I hope you have a wonderful night."

You leave the boutique, the sun having already set.

The Winter Gala takes place on the top floor of Seoul's most luxurious hotel, specifically in its grand ballroom. The walls are adorned with gold trim, and its floors are elegantly lined with polished black marble. Above, a magnificent glass chandelier glimmers, catching the moonlight filtering through the surrounding glass windows.

Despite being a private event, the gala attracts a whole slew of press and locals who eagerly gather on either side of the hotel's front doors, treating it as a prime spot for viewing the red carpet.

Physically, you're ready; dressed to the nines, and makeup done just right. Mentally, you're absent; secretly sipping a margarita at the end of the earth, wherever that is. The day finally comes for you to make an appearance at the Annual Winter Gala and it's clear, you're not prepared in the slightest.

Your nerves consume you as you sit in the backseat of your limousine. You protested against being dropped off at the front entrance. Hell, you hadn't even wanted to arrive in a limo. However, your PR team insisted you be seen arriving, happy to be supporting a charitable event for the eighth year in a row.

Reluctantly, you complied.

Chim 🐥: I wish I could be there with you tonight 😞 No matter what, don't let those snobs get into your head. You look stunning and you have nothing to be ashamed of! [sent at 6:23 pm]

"Thank you, love," you whisper to aloud upon reading your best friend's endearing message. Before you can craft a reply, your door is flung open, with harsh flashes of cameras blinding you. When you step out of the limo, you hear a mix of passionate cheering and interrogative remarks.

"Ms. __, could you share with us your experience of attending the gala without Jeon Jungkook by your side for the first time?"

"Ms. __, it's unexpected to see you here this year, especially considering your recent separation from your ex-husband, who is also on the guest list!"

"Ms. __, how do you plan to navigate the evening's festivities without the familiar presence of your former partner?"

Just keep walking __. If you can just get inside the building and tune out the noise, you'll be fine. You coach yourself with every step, but make little progress with the amount of discomfort only skyrocketing. Your photos are being taken, and questions barrage you from all angles. To top it off, you feel a strong migraine coming on and oh fuck— is that the devil now?

You don't have to glance back to guess the sudden increase in cheering is due to the arrival of another hot A-lister. It has to be Jungkook with a new woman by his side. You think he wouldn't bring a date to an event like this, even if she were a hire? You'd be horribly mistaken.

You fight against the urge to turn around and confirm if your suspicions are true.

"__!" a voice calls out, which you ignore.

But wait a minute.

You stop in your tracks—that's not Jungkook's voice at all; it’s far too raspy.

Peeking over your shoulder, your jaw falls open as you see Kim Taehyung steps behind you wearing a boxy grin on his face. He's dressed to the hills with a shiny maroon, Louis Vuitton suit hugging his slim waist. Quite handsome, per usual, but what is he doing here?

Taking the initiative, Taehyung strides next to you and waves to the crowd charismatically. “My movie shoot wrapped up early so I thought I’d swing by and see what all the excitement’s about,” he says.

You observe how easy it is for him to appease the crowd, a skill you’re still working to sharpen.

“Tae-” you begin.

He then turns to you and looks straight into your eyes. You shiver at from the sudden intensity.

“I got an invitation too, and the gala happens to support a cause that I find close to my heart.” His voice lowers for the next part, allowing only your ears to hear. “I also didn’t want you having to be alone this evening, __. I hope I didn’t overstep my boundaries.”

Taehyung’s words manage to coax you away from your previously frazzled state, comforting you as the chaos quiets around you.

“Thank you, Taehyung. You didn’t, don’t worry,” you reply, giving a tight-lipped smile. “It’s actually a good thing you came since you’re basically the second face of my company after all.”

“I’m happy to hear that. We’ve been working so well together recently, and I don’t want to ruin it. May I?” He offers you an arm.

“You may.” You slip your arm into his and continue towards the hotel entrance. You admit you’re glad to see him.

With Taehyung nearby, your apprehensions of the night start to subside. He’s not always beside you, slipping away to mingle often, yet his mere presence relaxes you. You haven’t even thought about Jungkook to be honest. Well, maybe a little bit.

You take a sip of the drink in your hand and casually scan the ballroom until bingo, you spot your ex-husband by the bar in the middle of half a dozen people. Figures he’s the center of attention, effortlessly tethering people to himself. Jungkook loves the spotlight, and the spotlight loves him. As you continue watching him from across the room, a whirlwind of conflicting emotions swirls within you; longing, sorrow, anger. You haven't seen him in over two months, it feels surreal.

Memories of your time together come flooding back all at once—both the good and the bad, yet mostly bad. It's strange how someone you were once so close to can suddenly feel like a stranger. You allow your gaze to linger a moment longer, curious to conclude a date is nowhere in sight. Perhaps you’re mistaken and they’ve merely slipped away for a second. You’re positive he would’ve brought someone.

Bitterly, you gulp down another sip of your drink. When you place your glass down, you nearly choke at the sight of Jungkook's dark eyes burning holes at you. You avert your gaze immediately, silently begging that he didn’t just witness you staring at him and take it as an unsolicited invitation to come over.

“So,” a provocative voice unexpectedly slides next to you. “Looks like you just traded one bachelor for the next __. I’m shocked to see you’ve shown up to our little soirée.”

Oh god, you roll your eyes, recognizing the owner of the slithery voice like the back of your hand. You do not have the stamina for this tonight.

“Kathy," you greet with the fakest, yet sweetest smile possible. "Nice seeing you again. I haven't seen you since last year. How's the baby?"

"Oh please," she scoffs. "Don't try to deflect, sweetie. We both know it's you who is of far more... intrigue. If you understand my gist."

You want to hurl at this woman's condescending tone. Nothing gets under your skin more than someone your age calling you sweetie. It's not endearing in the slightest, especially when it's Kathy Lee, Director of CommaTen. You despise each other, likely because you both hit it big in the industry at a young age. Meeting someone who reminds you so closely of yourself isn't always a blessing.

“Anyway, as I was saying," she continues, brushing her hair behind an ear. "I have quite the bone to pick with you about stealing that actor from me. Kim Taehyung was mine first, you know."

Hers? She speaks as if a person can be owned. You won't lie, you're surprised Taehyung agreed to partner with you at a time when most of Seoul's elites have turned against you. You're naive to assume that his support wouldn't backfire on his reputation. On the other hand, he's been your endorser for two months now and his following remains fully intact.

“To be frank, I didn't know the two of you were talking business at all," you respond to the accusations with composure, though burning up inside. "But of course, he's free to make his own decisions, can't he? Whatever the reason, something must have enticed him."

“You—" Offended by your insinuation that your offer was better than hers, Kathy doesn't stop what comes next. "We both know the only reason why Kim Taehyung's with you is because Jungkook left you! And you need the extra publicity, isn't that right?"

Fuck. Well, now you're really fucking embarrassed because, at that moment, everyone in the room shifts their attention your way. A pin drop could be heard in the entire ballroom since even the live band ceased their playing.

This is why you didn't want to come. Your fingers fumble with the fabric of your gown.

“Don't act like you're above me just because your company might be worth more than mine, __. We'll catch up with you soon," Kathy spits her final words before spinning around and triumphantly walking away.

Don't cry, you tell yourself. Everyone's staring at you; the press, your peers, Jungkook, and Taehyung. Don't you dare cry.

As the murmurs of conversation gradually resume around you, you force yourself to take a deep, steadying breath. Kathy's words were nothing but a feeble attempt to save her own face. Besides, what company doesn't have at least one endorser?

"Are you alright?" Taehyung's low, gentle voice catches your attention as he swiftly returns to your side, no doubt influenced after witnessing Kathy's verbal jab.

You manage a tight-lipped smile, nodding faintly as you attempt to push back the overwhelming wave of humiliation. "I will be," you reply, though the words feel hollow even to your own ears.

His gaze lingers on you for a moment longer, a silent understanding passing between you.

"I hope you don't take her words to heart, __," he mutters. "I chose to become your partner because I genuinely believe in your product. I'm selective about who I support, so please trust me when I say it wasn't because of material gain or pity."

You're on the verge of responding to his reassurance when you catch sight of your ex-husband from the corner of your eye, striding his way over to you for the first time tonight. His expression is unreadable, so you brace yourself, unsure of what to expect.

"__," he starts, his voice low but carrying an unmistakable urgency. "Can we talk?"

You and Taehyung share a quick glance before you follow Jungkook out of the ballroom, seeking privacy.

As soon as you're out of earshot, Jungkook turns to you, his features softened by a hint of concern. "Hey," he starts. "I meant to get over to you sooner but got tied up. You know how it is."

"Yeah, I know," you respond, though you'd rather he didn't come over at all, especially after being dragged into the spotlight in front of all your peers and colleagues.

The two of you share an unsettling silence before he speaks again.

"You-You look good." He allows his eyes to rake up and down your body, causing you to cross your arms in discomfort. There was a time when his gaze brought a flutter of excitement, but now, you're not so sure it brings you the same pleasure.

"I'm sorry for what happened in there," he says. "You okay?"

"What?" you repeat, your eyes wide with surprise, stunned by his unexpected apology. "Am I okay?"

Where was this concern when he handed you the divorce papers nine months ago? Or when he willingly took advantage of your vulnerability that time in your office, only to disappear afterward, as if he hadn't just torn your heart out of your chest? You clench your fists, trying to contain the rising temperature of your anger.

"Yeah, about what she said about you," he clarifies. "It was uncalled for, and I feel horrible about it." He reaches out to touch you, but you instinctively step back, as if his touch would scorch you.

"Please, don't," you sigh, a trace of weariness in your voice. "It's fine."

"I'm serious __, I can have her charged with defamation for that. It wouldn't take much!" His insistence is unwavering, and it strikes your last nerve.

"You don't need to fight my battles for me, Jungkook," you suddenly snap, voice stern. "I'm not completely helpless now that you've divorced me!"

Jungkook's expression darkens, regret flickering in his eyes. "I'm not saying you are. I'm just trying to help."

"Help?" you repeat, doubtful. "How do you think that's going to look for me in the media? Jeon Jungkook slaps another high society member with a defamation charge for ex-wife. Thanks, but no thanks. I get enough of that as is."

He sighs, running a hand through his hair in frustration. "I know they've been difficult on you recentl—"

"Difficult?" you interject, your anger bubbling to the surface. "In case you haven't noticed my face is on every gossip magazine, billboard, press release, and anything else they can use to scorn me with. It's unbearable, especially since I still have a business to run."

Jungkook winces, clearly stung by your words. "Then let me help. I'll get them removed for you. I still care about you, __."

You scoff. "You care about me? Is that why you made me sign our divorce papers three months after you found out I wanted more than a fake marriage?"

His jaw clenches, gaze dropping to the floor guiltily. "It's not like that, __. I'm not trying to be an avoidant asshole. I want you to-"

"Find someone else. Yeah, I got it," you mutter bitterly, feeling a fresh wave of hurt wash over you.

"I'm sorry, __. I am."

You stare at him, torn between resentment and a lingering ache for the connection you once shared. Now, he's apologizing?

"So am I," you say, slowly backing away from him. "You don't have to do anything, Jungkook. I'm fine."

You then turn on your heels to return to the ballroom where Taehyung still waits for you, leaving your ex-husband standing in the hallway, alone.

a/n: A much-needed confrontation between oc and jk eh? But... *laughs evilly*..this is not the end...LMK what you think! 🤔🤍

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