Actions

Work Header

Symbol Of Faith

Summary:

"Ilay.. Ilay, why?"

Why does it have to be you that I'm in love with?

Jeong Taeui couldn't understand. Even after years of absence, why is it so hard to let go of someone you're not supposed to love? Ilay left. He left and never looked back. That's how it was to Taeui and now that he's back, suddenly Ilay just wants to reconnect like old times..?

Before he left, Ilay acted as if him leaving would be nothing but a short vacation. I'll come back to you. He told Taeui. But words are more often than not, shallow.

Notes:

Chapter 1: Act 1

Notes:

Dedicated to my dearest friend Eraiza. This fic took a different turn to what we talked about last time so I hope you don't mind xD I got carried away and look how it turned out. Thanks for giving me permission to share this fic here haha everybody say thank you. Anyway, Happy Birthday ❤️❤️

And don't bother with the era this was set in. We brainstormed the whole fic with one single goal in mind: Ilay fucking Taeui's brains out and knotting him. That's it. MERRY XMAS!!

Chapter Text

 

Act I — PROLOGUE: TWO HOUSEHOLDS, BOTH ALIKE IN DIGNITY

 

That morning, Jeong Taeui woke up with his knee aching. Just last night, it rained harshly and the air was thick with the scent of the wet earth and damp leaves. The pitter-patter of raindrops had seeped through his dreams. He shifted in bed, trying to shake off the discomfort, but the dull throb in his knee persisted. Left with no choice, Taeui threw the blanket off his legs and gave his aching knee a light massage.

“....” Taeui’s tired eyes hoped the throbbing sensation would start to fade. The firmer the pressure he applied, the more annoyed he got. 

Out of all the days in a month, it had to be now. Whenever this occurred, Taeui knew there was bad news coming his way. Worst of all is that he has no idea what it could be, but it was for certain that nothing would have prepared Jeong Taeui for what the day had in store for him. 

Taeui glanced at the suit his attendant had laid out for him two days ago. It was placed on the mannequin at the far corner of his room. Weeks before, he did not know if he wanted a three piece navy blue or jet black suit, so he settled for the first option. Now, as his knee throbbed in pain, Taeui knew he did not want any part of the occasion. 

Along with a bottle of what Taeui could guess was for so he wouldn't faint at the scent of Alphas and Omegas. How wonderful. 

When the maids knocked on his door to start the morning, Taeui remained seated on the bed; thinking of all possible ways the day could go south. 

 

[Early Evening, Jeong Estate]

Jeong Jaeui could not recall how long it had been since the entrance hall was this lively.

Wherever he looked, Jaeui only saw his mother’s favorite flowers strewed perfectly on every possible surface. The staircase was set with an amazing array of white and red roses, clovers, peonies, daisies, and many more he could not bother to name; all of which bloom beautifully under the light. All around the grand foyer, friends, family and distant relatives, and unfamiliar guests were exchanging pleasantries.

As they waited for the hosts to formally start the gathering, Jaeui was in search of his brother. Since their aunts got hold of the twins half an hour ago, Taeui disappeared without being noticed, leaving Jaeui alone to deal with them. He tried his best to engage with everyone, unlike Taeui who only agreed to come after their father bribed him with a special menu. Earlier, Taeui mumbled about missing appetizers as Jaeui took a few sips of his champagne. As of the moment, the doors to the banquet hall were still closed, so he doubts Taeui would be there. 

While he was looking around, Jaeui spots his parents across the room, smiles radiant as they conversed with a couple from Tarten— He would know, that clan has a unique way of carrying themselves. Jaeui headed towards them to ask about his brother.

"Jaeui, darling!" his mother exclaimed, pulling him closer to her side once he was close enough. "You look handsome. Where’s your brother?”

Jaeui smiled, patting her arm. "I have no idea. I was going to ask you if you have seen him."

“Oh, I haven't—-” She said, only to tilt her head over Jaeui’s shoulder. Mrs. Jeong’s smile shifted from genuine to something else. “Jeong Taeui. Come here, sweetheart.

Jaeui doesn't need to look behind him to know that Taeui had been caught sneaking away. He just kept smiling. If someone grew up in the same household as the twins, they would know what their mother’s tone indicated. Their full name accompanied with a ‘Come here’ usually meant you were in trouble. The sweet voice was deceiving too. 

The couple in front of them watched in ignorance as their mother pulled Taeui in. When she did so, Jaeui watched his twin brother wince at the force she used to grab his arm.

“And these boys are our sons.” Jaeui and Taeui bowed as they introduced themselves.

“Are they twins? They look so much alike.”

“They are,” said Mr. Jeong, “Jaeui is the older one, Taeui was born a few minutes after him.”

The couple chuckled. “Yes, we can clearly tell who’s the youngest between the two.” Jaeui almost snorted. 

Amidst their conversation, the doors slowly swung open. From where they stood, Jaeui couldn't see who entered, but judging by the sudden hush that fell on the entourage they must have been significant. 

Mr and Mrs Jeong were then approached by one of the guards nearby.

“Excuse us,” said Mrs Jeong. Her husband takes the champagne flute from her hand, and returns them on the server tray. “It was nice catching up with you, Richard, Chris. We should continue some other time.”

“Absolutely. Congratulations on your 40th anniversary.”

 

When their parents left to greet the newly arrived guests, Jeong Taeui groaned in pain as he began rubbing his arm. 

“Ow. I swear she was going to rip my skin. I think I'm bleeding..!”

“Dont be so dramatic, you deserve it.”

Taeui gives Jaeui an offended look. “You weren't the one she was pinching the whole time!”

“And I won't be.” Said Jaeui, not even looking at him. “Taeui, did you see who arrived earlier?”

“No. Everyone was blocking the view.”

Jaeui sighed, pushing a stray strand of hair from his face. "It's probably one of father’s associates," he muttered, more to himself than to Taeui. "They couldn't wait to leave. We should go.”

Taeui raises an eyebrow at Jaeui. “What does it have to do with us?”

“We have to greet the guests, Taeui. Do you want to be pinched again?”

“No, no! You’re right. Let's go.”

 

“Ah, Youngja, it’s been a while. You look radiant as ever” 

“Helga,” Jeong Youngja greeted, “I have missed you. How was your journey?” She extended both hands, taking Helga Riegrow’s in a graceful motion before leaning in to press a light kiss to her friend’s cheek, then the other. 

“Oh, it was pleasant. I could not wait to get to Verona.” Helga Riegrow took Jeong Youngja’s hand. “The arrangements are, as always, utterly breathtaking. Your taste is impeccable.”

“You flatter me, Helga. We merely wished to create an atmosphere befitting such an occasion.”

Mr. Jeong gave Youngja’s hand a light squeeze. “It is not every day that we have the opportunity to celebrate.”

“Forty years is a remarkable milestone. My deepest congratulations to you and your husband.” Said the Grand Duke— Helga’s husband— returning by her side after a firm hand shake with Mr. Jeong. 

“It is an honor, Your Highness. I hope you enjoy the celebration, and may our families further build harmonious connections. Speaking of which, where are my sons?” 

The two families stood for a moment. The Grand Duke and Duchess were offered champagne— especially prepared for them— when Jaeui and a sulking Taeui appeared just before their mother’s thin patience got to her. 

Taeui recognized the Riegrows just in time to plaster a polite smile on his face. 

"Ah, there they are," Taeui glanced at his mother. "Jaeui, Taeui, come and greet our esteemed guests." 

However, just as the twins were about to bow in greeting, the Grand Duchess pulled them in for a hug. Taeui, caught off guard, mumbled a greeting into her shoulder while Jaeui managed a more composed, "It's a pleasure to see you again, Your Highness." Her embrace was warm and she smelt of lavender. Despite his awkwardness, Taeui hugged her back and mumbled a proper greeting.

Her husband could not help but laugh. “Any more tighter and they might faint, Helga.”

“Darlings,” She cooed, “It's truly a pleasure to see you both again, after all these years.” 

Jeong Taeui’s discomfort only grew the longer Helga held them. 

It is not because of the crowd, or that he has never felt her embrace before. No. Given that she initiated—and Helga Riegrow does not just hug anyone—Jeong Taeui was one of the few that had the privilege of forming a close bond with her and her family; to the point of being able to hug the Grand Duchess. The tightness of Helga's embrace, however, wasn't the source of Taeui's unease. It was the unsettling familiarity, a sense of déjà vu so potent it felt like premonition.

Against the oil Taeui lathered himself in that morning he was sure the Grand Duchess’ scent clung to Taeui even after she had released him. He subtly shifted, trying to brush away the phantom feeling of her arm around him. It was both comforting and oddly unsettling. The years had softened the edges of his childhood memories with the Riegrows— the edges of familiarity had long turned into nostalgia. 

But nostalgia is a dangerous weapon, used to ensnare the heart and cloud the mind. 

Taeui felt the sting of it now. Deep down, Taeui knew The Grand Duchess always did things with intention, even if she meant to hurt or not. The Grand Duke chuckled again. 

“No need to be so formal,” She said, smiling so sweetly. “You two are like my own children, afterall.” 

“We will remember that in the future, Your Highness.” Said Jaeui, glancing at Taeui. Taeui glanced back at him. 

For the sake of their parents and mostly because they were raised to be so kind and polite, Taeui initiated the small talk which bridged the conversation together. Their mother and the Grand Duchess did most of the talking, of course, while Taeui and Jaeui would sometimes join in if they had something to comment on. 

Everything just went into his ear and out the other. It wasn't boring but it barely caught Taeui’s interest. Earlier he saw one of the Ling family’s sons pass by, and Taeui wanted to talk to him. Now he doesn't think he'll have the chance to do so.

“Yes, the situation there seems to be going well. I do think there's no need to send over more—”

Taeui’s eyes flickered towards the entrance. Behind Helga Riegrow, a figure came into view, tall, his presence alone enough to command the immediate attention of the entire hall. Beside him were an older man and a bright young woman, who smiled at anyone who called her name.

Helga beamed when she recognized the arrived guests. “There they are.” Said the Grand Duchess, “What ever took them so long? Youngja, you must hear about what happened during Ilay’s trip to—-”

Taeui’s ear began to ring.

What? Ilay?

He’s back..?

‘What happened on the way?’ Taeui heard Helga ask. He then heard Ilay’s voice in reply to his mother but that only made the ringing in his ear louder. 

Taeui saw their mouths moving, they were talking to each other but it was as if Taeui was watching from afar. He saw Jaeui staring at him, their parents greeting the three people who just arrived— Helena Riegrow even offering her hand to Jaeui, who in return placed a polite kiss on the back of her hand. But the ringing continued and it only intensified when Taeui met Ilay Riegrow’s eyes.  

Those cold darkened blue-grey eyes that held no longing. 

Why are you looking at me? 

‘Taeui.’

Why are you here?

‘Jeong Taeui.’

Why did you leave?

“Taeui.”

Taeui blinked, the shimmering haze around Ilay’s figure dissipating. The ringing in his ears subsided in an instant, replaced by Jaeui’s voice. “Taeui, are you alright?”

“I— Yes. I apologize, I was..” Everybody’s eyes were on him. “Surprised.”

Surprised.” Helga repeats then, she glances at Ilay and Taeui. Her smile turned cheshire. "Surprised to see Ilay again, are we?" Helga purred, her voice laced with a playful malice that did little to ease the tension.

Taeui swallowed; He has yet to greet Kyle and Helena, though he now doubts they would let him. The Grand Duchess’ smirk felt like a spotlight, lighting down on the awkwardness between him and Ilay— or maybe it was just Taeui who felt that way. If there's anything he knew about the Reigrow’s second son, it would be that Ilay could not feel emotions the way everyone does.

“Mother, you shouldn't bully Tay.” Kyle, Ilay’s older brother, laughed softly as if sensing Taeui’s unease. 

“Nonsense, Kyle. I am simply stating the obvious. These two are long overdue for a proper reunion.” 

Even Jeong Youngja agreed. “Indeed. You two were practically glued at the hip when you were young children. Isn't that right, Taeui?”

Defeated, Taeui could only answer the way he knew that would not cause any issue between the two families. “You’re right, mother.” Taeui smiled politely at Ilay, even stepping closer to the man. “It’s a pleasure to see you again. I hope you’ve been doing well.”

Ilay’s response was a curt nod, his gaze fleeting over Taeui’s appearance. “The pleasure is mine,” He said, his gaze settling on Taeui’s brown eyes. “I see the years have been kind to you—-You look nice, Taei.”

Nice..? “Thank you for your kind words.” Taeui wanted nothing more but to disappear. “You look just as well.”

“Now that you two have finally reconnected, I believe we may begin the main event in a few.” Said Mr. Jeong, clapping his hands, and the servants and attendants immediately began to get the dining hall ready one last time.

Taeui watched his mother and father walk off with the Riegrows in the opposite direction. Except for Helena, who gave Taeui a tight reassuring hug, saying the words “I miss you, Tay. Come over next week.” Before prancing over to the other girls inside. One attendant assisted him and Jaeui to their table as they ushered guests towards the dining hall, everyone taking their seats according to the invitation.

“You will be seated at the main table tonight. If you would please follow me.”

The tension, bit by bit, left Taeui’s body. Though not fully. Not until he knew where the rest of the Riegrows were sitting. Helena was with her friends but she has always sat with them regardless of the occasion. Taeui just wishes that he would not have to sit next to a certain someone, the scene that was their ‘reunion’ is enough. But knowing their mother, she would have thrown their relatives out as long as she could sit next to the woman whom she considers her closest friend. 

“What was that?”

“Hm? What was what?”

“You look like you saw a ghost earlier.” Said Jaeui.

That would be correct. But ghosts come in different forms, and in Taeui’s case, the ghost would be Ilay Riegrow. “I was not expecting to see him.” He shrugs. “I suppose I was just taken aback— Do I look pale?”

“No.” Jaeui murmured. His eyes are similar to a dog sideeying someone. “Just red.”

Jeong Taeui feels himself flush further. “It’s quite hot in here, isn’t it?” He began to fan his hand in an effort to play it off, but Jaeui only looked at him weirdly. “Uhm, where are mother and father?”

“Probably still talking to the Riegrows.”  Jaeui replied, taking a sip from his water glass.  “Mother won’t be letting go of the Grand Duchess so easily tonight. She’ll want to milk every moment of it.”

“Jae, do you remember when we last visited the Riegrow estate?”

“If my memory is correct, it was Helena’s 16th birthday. Why?”

“Oh, it’s nothing. Did you happen to see him there?”

“Who’s him? Rick?”

“Yes.”

“You can say his name, Taeui.” 

Taeui ignores him. “Was he there?”

Jaeui hums, recalling if he saw Ilay during Helena’s celebration. “I do not think so, he must have been away at Armaros during that time.”

Taeui could not remember if he saw Ilay present but it's astonishing how that man would not even come to his own sister’s birthday. He has no idea what Ilay has been doing all these years but he should've made an effort to see his family on such an important occasion, and yet he came home so willingly on a day that had nothing to do with him. If Taeui knew beforehand Ilay Riegrow was attending his parents' anniversary, he would've made an excuse so academically damaging that even they would've disowned Taeui if he showed up. 

Ugh, Taeui thought to himself. His mood was totally ruined and it's all Ilay’s fault. Jaeui must have sensed him and instead of comforting his brother, Jaeui chose to ask the most obvious question.

“Taeui, are you still mad at him?”

Taeui wanted to say ‘Yes. Yes I am,’ because he is and he thought of it again and again throughout the years: If Ilay were to suddenly appear in front of him, the first thing Taeui would do was slap him. Violent or not, Taeui felt it was justified.

“No. Why should I be angry?” Jaeui is smart, but Taeui prays that this time his brother wouldn't be able to see right through him. “He’s a stranger after all.”

Either God or Jeong Jaeui himself spared Taeui some mercy, because his brother only nodded at his answer.



As expected, the Riegrows sat on the same table as them. Honestly, it was foolish of Taeui to think otherwise. Both families often said the phrase “You’re family to us,” even when they were little. If there is one thing Taeui knows well, it's that the royal family deeply cherished the Jeong family. 

That's right, Taeui’s earliest memories with the Riegrows had always been being able to sit on the same table as them whatever the occasion. Against the haziness, Taeui remembers sitting on Helga Riegrow’s lap and listening to her lullaby, being hugged by her scent. Then there was Ilay, who refused to be on his mother’s lap and just watched as Taeui fell asleep. But he always pouted afterwards not out of jealousy, but because he didn't like how Taeui smelled differently. Even if he didn't understand how scents worked, it was endearing.

Sadly, the Ilay now is a stranger to him, but the Riegrows themselves are not. He still receives presents from Helga on every occasion and without fail. They still call him with what Taeui knows is love. Jaeui tells Taeui that every time he is not able to attend their invitation, Kyle and Helena would appear sullen. The Grand Duke passes on a message that the twins are always welcomed at his doorstep. 

It was not on purpose that Taeui ignored them, but he's very immersed in his studies. He also resides overseas so Taeui cannot find the right time to travel back to Verona. Jaeui was lucky enough to be able to live a little closer to the royal family compared to Taeui, which is why he always came in his twin’s stead.

“They miss you.” Jaeui told him last fall. “Terribly so.”

Now, they're sat on the same table and Taeui is trying not to look ahead. 

“Tay, how are your studies?” Kyle asked, “I heard from Jay which academy you go to. I never expected less.”

“It's pretty easy to get accepted there, Kyle. It's nothing amazing.”

This time, their father joins in on the conversation. “My boy, with a mind such as yours, it would be a loss to the institution if they rejected your admission.”

“He’s right. If you'd been interested in our business— like your brother— mother would have ordered me to offer you a position.”

Taeui laughs. “I appreciate the hypothetical offer, I'll let you know if I change my mind in the future.”

He won't, but being told “We have your back,” by the same people who have always been there for him since he was a little child, it felt so wonderful. He doesn't even care if there's someone whom he doesn't want to see in front of him, Taeui just continued on chatting with Kyle and the Grand Duke. 

“Taeui, if you don't mind me asking,”

“Not at all, your Highness. What is it?”

The Grand Duke spared a glance towards the direction Taeui refused to look. “You are not seeing anyone, are you?”

Pfft—

Taeui almost spit his drink— however, he did. A little. It was embarrassing.

The Grand duke gave him a surprised expression, even went as far as lightly slapping his back to ease off the coughing. Jaeui slid a napkin that Taeui quickly used to wipe his mouth. 

Some of the recipients on their table had their eyes on Taeui. He apologized as soon as he recovered, knowing well enough his mother would've humiliated him if she saw him lacking. “I apologize, Your Highness. It was an unexpected question.” He said, “But I assure you, I've been focusing well. It's impossible to get distracted with how much work they hand us.”

“I’m glad to hear that, son. You almost made me think you were galloping off with some foreign Alpha.”

Kyle winced. “Father, please don't say anything reckless.”

“What? I'm just stating how proud I am.” Their father shrugs, “Tay knows his worth, and as a member of the royal family, he should never settle with just anyone. Don't you agree, Ilay?”

“I suppose. With his personality, Taeui running off into the sunset with some common breed should be the least of your worries.” Ilay said, placing his chalice down. The red liquid inside swirled. He continued, “Though unclaimed Betas and Omegas don’t often last long beyond their family’s walls.”

Ilay.” Kyle reprimands his brother, but Ilay could not care less. 

“....” Taeui was speechless for many reasons— but mainly, he felt humiliated. His jaw tightened as much as the feeling burned. Amidst the chatter and his mother’s ladylike laugh, Ilay leaned back, his eyes as sharp as the crystal chalice before him. They lingered on Taeui and it infuriated him. Ilay had no right commenting on other things beyond the Grand Duke’s question. 

How dare he? They hadn't seen each other in years, and yet Ilay’s audacity still remained the same. Taeui would've let it slide, despite how hard it was to keep his composure, but Ilay’s presence alone had already set him off the moment he arrived. Now, he was spouting nonsense. This man— this Alpha— knew nothing. 

Helga, Youngja, and their father went on with their conversation. The Grand Duke shook his head at Ilay’s statement and Taeui couldn't tell if he was disappointed or amused. Jaeui, after hearing that, kept his eyes on Taeui. 

Kyle had to apologize on his brother’s behalf. 

Accepting it meant Ilay had offended him— he has— but that would also mean Taeui still cares about him. He doesn't, not anymore. Taeui stopped caring about Ilay the day he disappeared. Besides, it’s not the first time an Alpha made inappropriate comments towards him. 

Taeui smiled at Kyle, then, at the bastard named Ilay Riegrow. Though it didn't reach his eyes. “I appreciate your concern, but of course, I would never saddle myself with anyone who isn't perfectly suitable. Though, I have to disagree with your opinion.”

“Oh? I’d like to hear why.” Ilay challenged him back.

“I find I’ve survived quite well on my own these past years.” He paused. “Maybe, if you spent as much time studying the art of humility as you do playing knight in shining armor, you’d know I’m very capable. With or without an Alpha.”

From the corner of his eye, he saw Jaeui cover his mouth with a napkin as his shoulder shook so lightly. Now, it was Ilay’s turn to smile, but Taeui knows it’s not from amusement. The Grand Duke’s booming laugh crackled through like a thunderstorm. It broke the tension and everyone turned their heads to their table. An old man who rarely let his feelings and emotions control him suddenly burst out laughing is most definitely a sight to behold. Even The Grand Duchess was surprised. 

“My boy— Tay,” The Grand Duke said, his voice sliding back to its normal cadence, “You’ve always had a tongue sharper than a sword. My son had that one coming.”

He did, Taeui thought. Oh, he’s never felt so crossed in his life. 

 

The attendant placed the plate in front of him. She even refilled his chalice. If Taeui’s correct, this is the nth time she came to pour him juice. In the beginning it was wine, like everyone else. After noticing Taeui gulping down four times since they sat down, Jaeui requested they serve his brother pomegranate juice instead.

Taeui knew he'd make frequent visits to the lavatory later on. No one told him to slow down too— excluding the pest of a man sitting across from him— so Taeui didn't stop. 

Mr and Mrs Jeong barely spoke to them, focusing solely on everyone and Helga Riegrow. Instead, when they were finished with the main course, Mrs Jeong got up from the table and went to Jaeui and Taeui. She placed her hand on Taeui’s shoulder and whispered.

Taeui felt shivers down his spine. But as a loving mother would, Mrs Jeong kissed both her son’s cheeks, before returning to her seat. She went back to talking like nothing happened. 

“Sometimes.. Sometimes, she scares me.” Taeui mumbled just loud enough for Jaeui to hear. 

What is she planning now? Taeui didn't know what to think. Only to him did she whisper, and that frightens him the most. Whenever Jeong Youngja had something planned it always ended with disaster, though not literally. There wouldn't be any physical evidence because there never is. What he means is, his mother has a record of dragging them into situations none of the twins have a word in. 

Five minutes pass and the attention of the entire entourage shifts to the tall four-tier cake in the middle of the room. Taeui remembers their mother saying how she wanted the cake from their wedding day to be served as dessert on their anniversary.

“It’s beautiful, darling.” He heard his father’s comment. 

His mother didn't even spare her husband a glance and was handed a knife to cut the bottom layer.

With how much their parents prepared for an anniversary, you'd think they're getting married again. That's what Taeui thought, but seeing their mother and father together, Taeui wonders if the love they have is how ‘love’ is supposed to be.

Genuine —he knew that— pure, unconditional, and unbreakable. They say it comes in different forms.

“Happy 40th anniversary!”

“More years to come for the Jeong family!”

“What a lovely couple.”

“May your love continue to flourish!”

Everyone stood up to cheer and express their congratulations. Taeui stuck to his brother’s side, he clapped when the guests did. Now that he wasn't face to face with Ilay he could celebrate like anyone else. 

“I’m getting sick just by thinking of the left overs.” Jaeui mumbled. 

Before Taeui could even retort back, Mrs Jeong began to speak.

“It's a dream come true to have our nearest and dearest gathered together to mark a truly unforgettable occasion for my beloved and I,” She looked up at Mr Jeong, “We feel truly blessed by the love and support of our friends and family, who have been celebrating with us from the moment he proposed. And we're especially grateful to every one of you who have been our rock every step of the way.”

“We also ask for your utmost support in the upcoming years. Not only with our marriage but also as we celebrate the future milestones of our children. It would bring us great joy to see familiar faces at our sons' weddings.”

See, normally Taeui wouldn't have paid his father any mind when we said things that made no sense. But now- Taeui felt as though ignoring him and his words would royally screw him over. 

Both Mr and Mrs Jeong searched the crowd for their sons, only they were actually looking for Taeui. The moment Taeui and his mother’s eyes met, Taeui automatically stopped breathing.

"Today, however," Mr. Jeong continued, "We celebrate not only our own milestone, but also a new chapter for our family, of what will further cement the bond between the Jeong and Riegrow families."

“Jaeui, what is— what is father talking about?” 

“Taeui, I have no idea—”

Taeui and his Jaeui, exchanged a look of confused, horrified expressions. The room fell silent again, except for the frantic thumping of Taeui's heart.

“For many years, our families have been bound not only by business but also with mutual respect. We have worked side-by-side and built our businesses together.”

Taeui felt a cold dread creeping into his bones. He looked around the room, until his eyes met Ilay. 

"And to further solidify this bond, to ensure the continued prosperity of our families for many more generations to come, we have decided that it is best for the families to join together, not just in business, but in marriage."

Taeui felt his blood run cold.

With a final blow, his father said: "Therefore, it is with immense pride that we announce the engagement of our youngest son, Jeong Taeui, to the second son of the Riegrow family; Ilay Riegrow."

The room erupted into surprised murmurs mixed with excitement. Taeui felt a wave of nausea wash over him. He glanced at his brother for any sort of comfort, instead he saw Jaeui covering his mouth in horror. This is the first time Jaeui made that face, Taeui feels all the more terrible for himself.

He couldn't breathe. He couldn't move. Taeui was frozen where he stood, even when his vision tunneled into his mother’s hand, beckoning him in front.

“Later, when I call you, come forward.”

So this was it?

Taeui felt his entire body go cold like a corpse.

He really shouldn't have come home.

 

To be continued..