Promises [3/?]
Title: Promises
Pairing: Yunho/Jaejoong
Rating: R
Genre: Romance, Action, Drama
Summary: As secrets came to light, Jaejoong saw his life falling apart to the point where he realizes he knows nothing and suspects everyone - even, Jung Yunho.
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“I can’t believe something like this happened to them.”
Jaejoong lifted his head up, “I can’t either.” He said, his voice hollow. He swallowed tightly and looked down at his cup of tea, “I didn’t think…I didn’t think it was possible for something like this to their family.”
“Everyone’s getting worried about it, you know?” Suyeon said as she poured more tea into Jaejoong’s cup, “Mother and father are talking about tripling security on all of us and intensifying the security technology of the estate.”
“They’re not the only ones on edge.” Jaejoong murmured as his finger traced the edge of his cup, “I’ve seen in the news how other important families are tripling their security and are fishing through their associates in order to make sure no one would possibly double cross them.”
“I see.” Suyeon frowned and tucked back a strand of her long dark hair. She glanced at Jaejoong worriedly, “Have you heard anything about Yunho lately? With his family gone…he’s the only one remaining.”
“I haven’t heard anything about him, “Jaejooong replied slowly, “If he doesn’t turn up soon, then someone will end up taking hold of all of the Jung’s businesses - and I’m sure there will be a lot of fighting over that.”
“These times are so difficult.” His youngest sister mused aloud as she flipped through the pages of her magazine idly, “You never know who to trust anymore. Anyone outside of the family could be plotting our demise at this moment -“
“Don’t talk like that.” Jaejoong scolded with a fierce glare, “Don’t bring up things if you don’t have any clue about what you’re talking about.” He shook his head before he ran his hand through his hair, “Just…we should change topic.”
Suyeon bit her lip, “Aren’t you worried though? First you…now the Jungs, I’m scared that whoever’s doing this is going to strike at us again.”
Jaejoong stared blankly at his tea, unsure of what to say. As much as he wanted to comfort his sister, to assure her that no one would be coming back to kill him or any of their family members, he couldn’t lie to her as well. In fact, ever since he’d heard of what had happened to the Jungs, he’d had a nagging feeling of fear that someone would be coming after their family next.
“See, I’m right for being afraid, aren’t I?” Suyeon continued with a sigh. She fidgeted in her seat and pulled at her hair - a habit she’d had since she was younger - and reached out to hold Jaejoong’s hand, “It’s okay Jaejoong, you can feel afraid too. You don’t have to pretend and try to look strong for me. I’m here for you too.”
“Suyeon…” Jaejoong trailed off and looked at her sadly.
Although they were only a year apart, he’d always felt the need to protect Suyeon more so than any of his other sisters. She got sick easily, she was sensitive - she had all sorts of traits that pulled out his instinctive need to protect her, and to know that he couldn’t offer her any comfort was bothering him greatly.
He wanted to protect her, but he couldn’t - not when he had no clue about why so many terrible things were happening to people close to them.
“Jaejoong, you don’t have to look strong for me, okay?” Suyeon said reassuringly as she squeezed his hand tightly and interlaced her fingers with his, “I don’t need to be protected, so please, don’t worry about looking to me for strength and comfort. I can help you.”
“I’m not scared, I’m just tired.” Jaejoong replied with a forced smile on his face as he squeezed her hand back. “Don’t worry about me either Suyeon. I’m okay. I’m just tired.”
“Have you been working a lot lately?” Suyeon asked, the concern evident in her eyes as she studied him carefully. “I know the business requires a lot of time and attention from you, but that doesn’t mean you should start stressing yourself out like this.”
“It’s nothing Suyeon, don’t worry.” Jaejoong repeated as he forced a smile onto his face in an attempt to convince her that there was truly nothing wrong. “It’s just a bout of tiredness, I get it all the time. I’m just tired. There’s nothing else for you to be worried about.”
Jaejoong took a sip of tea and averted his eyes. Although he’d meant every single one of his words, they still felt somewhat like a lie.
He was worn out, that much was true, but as to what caused his constant tiredness was a different thing in comparison to what he’d said to Suyeon.
He was tired - tired of being afraid and tired of being in the dark.
o-o-o
Jaejoong hated being alone.
As much as he’d cherished his solitude before, now he couldn’t stand it. Each and every single second that passed by reminded him that it was possible that any of his family members could be getting harmed at that exact second. Being alone allowed his mind to wander - it let his fears run free and made him think of terrible situations that could arise at any moment, at any given location.
Being alone was not good for his heart.
He needed genuine accompaniment - not more bodyguards. A few days ago, he’d somehow managed to convince his father that the building’s security was enough, and he could now travel without a pack of bodyguards following behind him. Perhaps it was foolish for him to do so, but he didn’t want to be suffocated by their presence.
Jaejoong swallowed hard and stood up. He slowly made his way back to his living room and picked up the coat he’d discarded on the sofa earlier in his rush to get to his bed. He shrugged it on as he walked slowly to the front door, and as soon as he’d gotten it on completely, he opened the door.
Jaejoong froze the moment he locked eyes with the tall young man that stood in front of him. He took in the youthful yet stern features and the intimidating height, and then took a shaky step back.
He clutched the door knob tightly, “What do you want?” Jaejoong asked, his voice steady and unwavering. “If you’re planning on robbing me, I have a gun -“
The taller man stuck his foot in the door in order to ensure that Jaejoong would not try to slam the door shut and spoke, “I have to talk to you. You are Kim Jaejoong, correct?”
“What do you want?” Jaejoong hissed, backing slowly away from the door, “If you’re media, a business investor, or God knows what, I don’t care how you got here, but I will call security and have you -“
The man pulled back his coat and revealed his gun holster. His eyes met Jaejoong’s and, his other hand moved to pull the gun out. “If you don’t let me in, I’ll be forced to threaten you further, and I don’t want to do that, so kindly allow me inside your home, and I’ll make this quick.”
Jaejoong opened the door slowly, and the man placed the gun back into its holster. After he’d taken a few steps inside Jaejoong’s apartment, Jaejoong quietly shut the door behind him and leaned onto it - fearing what would happen next.
The stranger turned around and held out his hand, “Shim Changmin.”
Jaejoong stared at the outstretched hand for a few seconds before he lifted his gaze and warily met the eyes of the other man once more. “What do you want with me?”
“Well…” Changmin trailed off and stared at Jaejoong pointedly, “I’d like to know something.” He pointed at the sofa, “Take a seat.”
“I don’t think you should be telling me to do anything in my own home.”
The corner of the taller man’s lips curved into a smile, and he shook his head with amusement, “Fine then.” Changmin crossed his arms and studied Jaejoong, “How much do you know about Jung Yunho?”
“I…I know him well enough.” Jaejoong stuttered, “I’ve known him since we were children, and his family is, I mean…was, close with mine -“
“No, I don’t need to hear your socially correct bullshit. I want to know how much you really know about Jung Yunho, and not more about that social façade you two wear in public.”
Jaejoong kept the other man’s intense gaze, “I don’t know anything about -“
“Why did Yunho visit you?” Changmin asked, taking a step closer and bringing his intimidating presence nearer to Jaejoong. “Why, of all places, did Jung Yunho go to your apartment?”
“I don’t know.”
“You don’t know, or you just don’t want to tell me?”
Jaejoong returned Changmin’s look with an icy glare. “I don’t know why Yunho showed up here. In fact, I don’t even know why he came to me.” He shook his head and walked away from the other man, “I don’t know anything.”
“Mr. Kim, why do you think I’m really here?”
Jaejoong paused and kept his back turned to Changmin. “It’s more than just about Yunho, isn’t it?” he tensed up and balled his fists, “What do you want from me?”
“I’m here with a proposal.”
Changmin’s footsteps sounded loudly in the room, his steady steps almost in time with the beating of Jaejoong’s heart. He stopped a few steps away from Jaejoong and cleared his throat.
“You’re one of Yunho’s…” Jaejoong trailed off and turned around, “You’re part of the syndicate, and you’re here because you want something from me.”
The taller man nodded, “You’re correct in that assumption.” He took one step closer to Jaejoong, “And I’m sorry if my earlier questions worried you, but I asked them so that I could assess your relationship with Yunho and make sure that it is -“
Jaejoong turned around, “What are you trying to say -“
“You should listen to me.” Changmin interrupted, silencing Jaejoong effectively. He stared down Jaejoong, “I have a message for you from Yunho. Do you want to hear it? If you don’t, I could leave right now.”
Jaejoong swallowed hard. “I’ll listen.”
“Yunho has requested for you to join our syndicate. He thinks you would be a valuable asset to our group, and he also thinks that the benefits of being a member of our syndicate shall prove highly advantageous to you -“
“What?” Jaejoong practically snarled as he advanced toward Changmin. “Are you saying that he wants me to join him in your crime group?” he shook his head and walked away, “No, I refuse to.”
“You do realize that you’re in an unsafe spot at the moment, right Mr. Kim?” Changmin asked as Jaejoong walked away, “Your family is under threat at the moment. Your father has more enemies than he knows of -“
“My father is an upright man!” Jaejoong shouted, “If you are implying that he’s done anything to cause trouble, then -“
“Good people like him attract the attention of bad people like us.” Changmin said slowly, watching Jaejoong carefully. “All the good your father does for the community is sure to interrupt the plans of others. Don’t think that just because you’ve managed to escape death once that your family members will be as lucky. Your family needs protection now more than ever - not everyone is honest as you think.”
“So Yunho thinks that if I join your syndicate, I’ll be safe?” Jaejoong laughed bitterly and shook his head, “I don’t think so. Look at Yunho. He’s part of your group, isn’t he? He joined, and look at what had happened to him - he ended up bleeding and almost dying. Joining your group won’t give me anything in return.”
Changmin’s jaw tensed, “Don’t underestimate the capabilities of our group Mr. Kim. One slip up does not mean that we’re incapable of keeping your family safe. It would be stupid for you to reject our offer of charity.”
“It’s not charity if you expect something in return.” Jaejoong snapped, “What you want from me is servitude, and I don’t want to give that to you. I have pride, and I have morals. I refuse the offer, I’m sorry. Now please, get out.”
“You won’t be given this offer a second time.”
“I don’t need another offer. This is my first and final answer - no.” Jaejoong turned away from Changmin, “See yourself out.” He said finally before he walked to his bedroom and locked the door behind him.
As soon as he was within the confines of his room, Jaejoong slid down against the door and buried his face into his hands.
He was sick of it all.
o-o-o
If he hadn’t known what Jung Jihye had felt before, he was fairly sure that he knew how she had felt now. It was a sinking feeling in his stomach, and a constant nagging at the back of his mind - something was wrong.
As minutes passed by, the feeling refused to go away. Jaejoong ran a hand through his hair and gulped anxiously, his eyes focused on the hands of his wall clock that seemed to be moving too slowly.
He reached for his phone and dialed his mother’s number, just to make sure that nothing had happened because she was usually well aware of all of her children’s daily activities.
When his fingertips were merely millimeters away, the phone suddenly began to ring loudly. Jaejoong stared at the phone, and he could feel the terrible feeling of dread grow stronger.
Who was calling?
He closed the gap between his hand and the phone and answered it, gripping it tightly like his life depended on it.
“Hello?”
A dead silence followed after, and Jaejoong repeated his greeting. His heart pounded in his chest, and each second was absolute agony for him as the dread only grew as each second passed by.
“Your sisters, Han Sohyang and Kim Suyeon are in our possession. If you wish to see them alive, then you must pay our ransom.”
Jaejoong’s stomach dropped, and it felt like his heart stopped in his chest. He clutched the phone even tighter, and the man continued speaking, “We shall forward you the details. If you try to locate us, we shall kill them.”
He tried to find his voice, and after a weak attempt, he finally found it. Jaejoong’s voice was unsteady and shaky, “Who…who are you? Why are you -“
“You know who this is.” The speaker replied before he hung up.
The phone went dead, and the beeping of the dial tone could barely be heard over the beating of his heart. Jaejoong stared blankly at his desk, unbelieving of the news that he’d just heard.
His phone immediately began to ring once more, and he stared at in fear for a few seconds before he cautiously answered it once more.
The moment he heard the sobs on the other end of the line, he knew - it was his mother. Her voice, broken and miserable, voiced out the question he’d been thinking ever since his father’s birthday.
“Why us?” she cried before she broke out into a fresh round of sobs that sent chills down his spine and made his heart clench painfully in his chest.
Once again, he had no answers for her, and all he could do was listen to her sob as he tried to salvage his own sanity and composure. He couldn’t allow himself to break under the pressure, to break down and give up - he just couldn’t.
He would get his sisters back, no matter what, or he would die trying.
o-o-o
Days had passed, yet the next call never came. His father had roped in every single one of his allies, called in every single favor that he was owed - yet nothing. Not a single lead had turned up, and the police had no contribution whatsoever to finding his sisters.
Sohyang’s husband was an absolute mess, and Jaejoong was thankful for the existence of Sohyang’s children, or else he was fairly sure that the man would’ve done something incredibly drastic and stupid at that point. Although it pained Jaejoong to see such a strong man in such a fragile state, to know that he kept himself together for the sake of his children was reassuring as well.
Jaejoong however, could not say that he was going on well. Every single night, he feared that he would open his door only to see his sisters in a horrific state, or to receive a call telling him his sisters were dead. Countless fears plagued his mind, and he could not bring himself to ask anyone else for help - everyone was already focused and pained by their own issues.
Nor could he tell anyone about the calls he’d been receiving.
They were all the same, and all from the same number.
“You know who’s doing this to you.”
Did he? Did he know who was punishing his family? As much as Jaejoong did not want to push blame anywhere - Yunho was the only person he could see as a possible suspect. He was the only person common to the first incident, and with the knowledge of Yunho’s ties to the crime world, things seemingly fell into place, yet Jaejoong refused to believe what his paranoid mind suspected.
Jaejoong refused to believe that Yunho - the man that’d saved his life and had always treated his family with such kindness and respect would actually be capable of harming them in such a way.
Sometimes when he dreamed, he would remember the way Yunho had looked at him the night he’d stumbled into the apartment, bleeding and injured. It’d been hidden between flashes of pain, but Jaejoong could feel something from Yunho more than just thankfulness. He couldn’t place it, but he’d felt it.
They’d known each other for so many years, and although they’d never grown to become brothers, they’d developed a sort of familiarity with one another and learned small things about the other as well. While they were close enough to one another to call each other friends, they weren’t exactly best friends either. Their relationship had always been considered friendship, yet Jaejoong could always feel a certain restraint in their relationship.
He didn’t know when the restraint had come in, but it was only when they were older that he’d noticed it. He noticed how both of them acted awkwardly around each other, like there was some sort of huge divide between them, and he’d never known how to build a bridge between their separated states.
Despite that distance however, Jaejoong knew that he did know Yunho quite well. After years of being together, of attending boring social events, of dealing with numerous issues that were handed to an heir - they had a sort of understanding and appreciation toward each other in spite of all the constraints and ambiguity that surrounded their relationship.
If there was one thing Jaejoong was sure about when it came to Yunho, it was that Yunho’s honesty was hidden in his actions. Yunho was too skilled with words - he could wrap anyone around his fingers with flattery, he could enthrall people with his charisma, he could bring someone to tears with a harsh comment, he could teach anyone about anything with all the kinds of information stored in his brain, and he could lie without a batting an eyelash, but Yunho was not that skilled of an actor.
Jaejoong knew what he’d felt, and he knew what he’d seen. Yunho couldn’t have hurt his family in such a way because he didn’t have the power or desire to do so. Everything Jaejoong felt and remembered from that night battled against his fears and prevented him from believing that Yunho was capable of hurting his family. Although his rational mind told him to suspect Yunho, to not let him off the hook so easily, his heart refused to let him be cautious of him.
Despite his suspicions, the connections between the incidents, Jaejoong refused to give in. He couldn’t change the way he’d viewed Yunho for so many years.
He just couldn’t.
o-o-o
Jaejoong unlocked the door to his apartment, tired and weary from all the press conferences he’d been forced to attend. Each time, he’d used the same words to explain the situation that was only worsening and never improving. The press didn’t seem to catch the hint either - they continued on with their merciless crusade, hoping to get more of a reaction from him so that they could sell more of whatever they were selling.
Business was business, and it was unfortunate for them that they’d become the new source of gossip and income for the media.
As the day continued to slip through his fingers with every press meet, Jaejoong could feel his mood begin to sink as well. The chances of recovering a missing person decreased with each day, and as each minute passed by, Jaejoong knew that the chances of having his sisters returned in perfect health were getting slimmer as well.
Jaejoong bent down to take off his shoes, and he froze when he realized that the lights in his apartment were on. He placed his shoes down carefully and took small, quiet steps in an attempt to see who his visitor was without alerting the other person to his presence.
Once glance was all it took for him to recognize who it was.
“Yunho.”
The taller man was standing in the middle of his living room, and his eyes landed on Jaejoong immediately. He took two steps forward and stopped, “Jaejoong…” Yunho had the decency to avert his eyes from Jaejoong’s and his arms hung awkwardly at his sides as he tried to think of what to say to him, “I’m sorry -“
Yunho wasn’t able to finish his sentence because the moment he’d cast his eyes away; Jaejoong had approached him quickly and punched him right in the jaw. It wasn’t a perfect punch, and it wasn’t masterfully planned, but it made Jaejoong’s feelings known.
“This is all your fault.” Jaejoong choked out, overcome by his emotions. He shook his head and took a step away from Yunho, who was clutching his face and staring back at Jaejoong with an unreadable look on his face. “I thought you told me there would be no more of this, but look at my family now!”
“Jaejoong, I had nothing to do with this, I promise you.” Yunho said softly, but as he took a step forward, Jaejoong shrank away from him and took two steps back, refusing to look Yunho in the eye. “I never wanted anything like this to happen to your family…not after what….”
Yunho trailed off, and Jaejoong looked at him. He could feel his own feelings of guilt rise, and his heart constricted in his chest in pain for Yunho. but as much as he wanted to reach out for the other man and offer some form of comfort or understanding, he didn’t want to at the same time. He didn’t want to lean on Yunho - he didn’t want to confide in him or to ask him for help.
He didn’t want to depend on someone whose life would be dictated by others.
“I’m sorry.” Yunho said softly, “I’m so sorry.”
“Yunho…” Jaejoong bit his lip, “This is so fucked up. Why did this happen to us?” he asked, his voice resonating in the quiet of the entire apartment. He watched Yunho, waiting for some sort of reaction and desperately hoped that the man would have some sort of answer for him. “Did we do something wrong? Why are we being punished like this? Is it because I didn’t accept your offer?”
A frown crossed Yunho’s features, “What offer?”
Jaejoong shook his head, “One of your men approached me! He asked me about our relationship, and he…he told me that you wanted me to join the syndicate.”
Yunho studied Jaejoong carefully, “What? I…I didn’t, I never, I never told anyone to approach you.” He took a step closer, but Jaejoong backed way, “Trust me, please…I never told anyone to do that.”
“Is that so?”
Silence fell between them once more, and Jaejoong waited, his heart praying for some sort of reply. Minutes passed, and when Yunho made no move to say anything, Jaejoong could only let out a shaky sigh as his eyes turned downcast to the floor as he gathered his thoughts.
He looked back up at Yunho and shook his head as he recalled the memory of the news, “Your family…” Jaejoong swallowed hard, unable to continue his sentence, and met Yunho’s eyes, “Why…why are you here tonight Yunho? What do you want from me? I don’t think I have anything more to give you.”
Yunho took a step closer, but maintained a careful distance away from Jaejoong “I have an offer for you - and if you accept it, then I’m absolutely sure that your sisters will be saved and returned safely to your family.”
Jaejoong’s heart caught in his throat and he stared disbelievingly at Yunho, not sure if what he’d heard was truly what Yunho had said. “What is it? What is your offer?”
“If you want…” Yunho hesitated and looked away, “I’m offering you a place as…as my partner.”
The word partner resonated in Jaejoong’s ears. His mind tried to pick apart at the meaning of the word, but the only meaning he could think of was beyond what he thought Yunho would ask. As much as he wanted to believe that Yunho was simply asking him to assist him in future ventures, the way Yunho had spoken seemed to imply so much more than just a platonic relationship.
It was far from being a normal request, and Jaejoong couldn’t wrap his mind around the true meaning of Yunho’s words due to the shock of it all.
Jaejoong blinked rapidly, trying to gather his muddled thoughts so that he would be able to reply with something sensible. “What?” his heart’s pace quickened, and he tried to understand what Yunho was saying. “Are you saying...”
“The syndicate won’t be willing to help if you tried any other way. I’m of a high enough position, and if they were to know that you were my….partner, then they would be more willing to support my decision to help you.” Yunho took a step closer, “Jaejoong, if you entered the group now and let yourself be considered as a lower ranked member, then they would never help you, it would be too early for you to ask such a big favor from them -“
“Your partner…?” Jaejoong asked softly, “Are you saying…” he stared at Yunho questioningly, “You’re gay?”
Yunho’s eyes darted away from Jaejoong’s questioning gaze for a few seconds before he faced him once more, “That doesn’t matter, what matters is that -“
“I’ll do it.” Jaejoong said steely, his resolve firm. The offer, although highly unusual and unorthodox, was not something he could consider as too difficult. Although it went against his upright upbringing, Jaejoong could see no other way to have his sisters returned. The police were too slow, and none of the people his father had asked for help seemed to have any answers or any leads.
Yunho was his last option, and surely there were worst things to do than to be involved with Yunho.
He cleared his throat and met Yunho’s eyes. “I want my sisters back. If this is the price, then I shall be more than willing to do whatever it is that you need of me. I’m willing to be considered as your…partner.” He took a step closer to Yunho and calmed himself down for a few seconds before he resumed his reply, “I’m yours now, but you must promise me that they’ll come back safely -“
Yunho took a step forward and rested his palm against Jaejoong’s cheek, “I don’t want to own you.” He said softly, his eyes boring into Jaejoong’s. “You heard what I said. I said partners. I don’t want to be above you. We’re equals, and nothing less.”
Jaejoong averted his eyes from Yunho’s intense gaze, “If you say so.” He took a step back and pulled away from Yunho’s touch, the warmth leaving his skin immediately. He touched the place where Yunho had touched him and studied the other man carefully, “This…we’re in this together now, aren’t we?”
“When it’s all over…” Yunho replied, “You’ll be free to go. I won’t bother you, and I’ll make sure that the syndicate will never bother you either.”
“Will it be that easy?” Jaejoong mused, “Every day it seems like I get trapped further in whatever it is you don’t want me to be involved in.” The corners of his lips quirked into a bitter smile, “Haven’t you considered that perhaps I’m meant for this sort of life, after all?”
Yunho shook his head earnestly, “No, I don’t think so - and I don’t think I ever will feel like you’re meant for it. You’re too good for a life like mine.” He replied slowly, “Jaejoong…I promise, your sisters will be returned to your family. In preparation, I’ve taken a few steps in the right direction - I’ve already found out where they are.”
“Then where -“
Yunho shook his head, “No.” he swallowed hard, “You don’t need to know. I don’t want you to rush over there yourself and attempt to get them back on your own. Although you’ve taken your first steps into my world, I don’t want you delving in completely, and you wouldn’t be able to do anything on your own at the moment anyway.”
“Yunho…” Jaejoong sighed loudly and ran a hand through his hair. He looked around, focusing anywhere else other than Yunho before he declared quietly, “I’m tired.”
“You should go to bed then.” Yunho suggested as he glanced pointedly at Jaejoong’s nearby bedroom, “I’ve stayed for long enough, and it’s about time you went to bed, considering everything that’s happened to you lately. When your sisters are with me, I’ll be sure to call you.”
Yunho turned and made his way to leave, but just as he was close to the door, Jaejoong called his name. He turned around, “Yes?”
“Your wound, how did it heal?” Jaejoong asked softly, “Did you get a professional to look at it? You seem to be fine now.”
Yunho smiled, “You don’t have to worry about me Jaejoong, I’ll be fine.” He replied before he opened the door and walked out.
Jaejoong walked slowly to his bedroom, and didn’t bother to change into different clothes as he tumbled into bed. His eyes fluttered shut, and he found himself drifting off to sleep much easier than he had in days.
Everything he’d done, and everything he would be forced to do - it would all be worth it.
< >
Author’s Note: The eighth update of the fake Twelve Days of Christmas updates! I hope you guys all enjoyed my updates so far, and please continue to participate in the game. The choices for my next update are these: A Learning Process, For You. The Effects of a One-sided Crush and Someday. I hope that you guys all enjoy this chapter, and please do leave a comment! ♥
Pairing: Yunho/Jaejoong
Rating: R
Genre: Romance, Action, Drama
Summary: As secrets came to light, Jaejoong saw his life falling apart to the point where he realizes he knows nothing and suspects everyone - even, Jung Yunho.
banner made by godchild1134
“I can’t believe something like this happened to them.”
Jaejoong lifted his head up, “I can’t either.” He said, his voice hollow. He swallowed tightly and looked down at his cup of tea, “I didn’t think…I didn’t think it was possible for something like this to their family.”
“Everyone’s getting worried about it, you know?” Suyeon said as she poured more tea into Jaejoong’s cup, “Mother and father are talking about tripling security on all of us and intensifying the security technology of the estate.”
“They’re not the only ones on edge.” Jaejoong murmured as his finger traced the edge of his cup, “I’ve seen in the news how other important families are tripling their security and are fishing through their associates in order to make sure no one would possibly double cross them.”
“I see.” Suyeon frowned and tucked back a strand of her long dark hair. She glanced at Jaejoong worriedly, “Have you heard anything about Yunho lately? With his family gone…he’s the only one remaining.”
“I haven’t heard anything about him, “Jaejooong replied slowly, “If he doesn’t turn up soon, then someone will end up taking hold of all of the Jung’s businesses - and I’m sure there will be a lot of fighting over that.”
“These times are so difficult.” His youngest sister mused aloud as she flipped through the pages of her magazine idly, “You never know who to trust anymore. Anyone outside of the family could be plotting our demise at this moment -“
“Don’t talk like that.” Jaejoong scolded with a fierce glare, “Don’t bring up things if you don’t have any clue about what you’re talking about.” He shook his head before he ran his hand through his hair, “Just…we should change topic.”
Suyeon bit her lip, “Aren’t you worried though? First you…now the Jungs, I’m scared that whoever’s doing this is going to strike at us again.”
Jaejoong stared blankly at his tea, unsure of what to say. As much as he wanted to comfort his sister, to assure her that no one would be coming back to kill him or any of their family members, he couldn’t lie to her as well. In fact, ever since he’d heard of what had happened to the Jungs, he’d had a nagging feeling of fear that someone would be coming after their family next.
“See, I’m right for being afraid, aren’t I?” Suyeon continued with a sigh. She fidgeted in her seat and pulled at her hair - a habit she’d had since she was younger - and reached out to hold Jaejoong’s hand, “It’s okay Jaejoong, you can feel afraid too. You don’t have to pretend and try to look strong for me. I’m here for you too.”
“Suyeon…” Jaejoong trailed off and looked at her sadly.
Although they were only a year apart, he’d always felt the need to protect Suyeon more so than any of his other sisters. She got sick easily, she was sensitive - she had all sorts of traits that pulled out his instinctive need to protect her, and to know that he couldn’t offer her any comfort was bothering him greatly.
He wanted to protect her, but he couldn’t - not when he had no clue about why so many terrible things were happening to people close to them.
“Jaejoong, you don’t have to look strong for me, okay?” Suyeon said reassuringly as she squeezed his hand tightly and interlaced her fingers with his, “I don’t need to be protected, so please, don’t worry about looking to me for strength and comfort. I can help you.”
“I’m not scared, I’m just tired.” Jaejoong replied with a forced smile on his face as he squeezed her hand back. “Don’t worry about me either Suyeon. I’m okay. I’m just tired.”
“Have you been working a lot lately?” Suyeon asked, the concern evident in her eyes as she studied him carefully. “I know the business requires a lot of time and attention from you, but that doesn’t mean you should start stressing yourself out like this.”
“It’s nothing Suyeon, don’t worry.” Jaejoong repeated as he forced a smile onto his face in an attempt to convince her that there was truly nothing wrong. “It’s just a bout of tiredness, I get it all the time. I’m just tired. There’s nothing else for you to be worried about.”
Jaejoong took a sip of tea and averted his eyes. Although he’d meant every single one of his words, they still felt somewhat like a lie.
He was worn out, that much was true, but as to what caused his constant tiredness was a different thing in comparison to what he’d said to Suyeon.
He was tired - tired of being afraid and tired of being in the dark.
o-o-o
Jaejoong hated being alone.
As much as he’d cherished his solitude before, now he couldn’t stand it. Each and every single second that passed by reminded him that it was possible that any of his family members could be getting harmed at that exact second. Being alone allowed his mind to wander - it let his fears run free and made him think of terrible situations that could arise at any moment, at any given location.
Being alone was not good for his heart.
He needed genuine accompaniment - not more bodyguards. A few days ago, he’d somehow managed to convince his father that the building’s security was enough, and he could now travel without a pack of bodyguards following behind him. Perhaps it was foolish for him to do so, but he didn’t want to be suffocated by their presence.
Jaejoong swallowed hard and stood up. He slowly made his way back to his living room and picked up the coat he’d discarded on the sofa earlier in his rush to get to his bed. He shrugged it on as he walked slowly to the front door, and as soon as he’d gotten it on completely, he opened the door.
Jaejoong froze the moment he locked eyes with the tall young man that stood in front of him. He took in the youthful yet stern features and the intimidating height, and then took a shaky step back.
He clutched the door knob tightly, “What do you want?” Jaejoong asked, his voice steady and unwavering. “If you’re planning on robbing me, I have a gun -“
The taller man stuck his foot in the door in order to ensure that Jaejoong would not try to slam the door shut and spoke, “I have to talk to you. You are Kim Jaejoong, correct?”
“What do you want?” Jaejoong hissed, backing slowly away from the door, “If you’re media, a business investor, or God knows what, I don’t care how you got here, but I will call security and have you -“
The man pulled back his coat and revealed his gun holster. His eyes met Jaejoong’s and, his other hand moved to pull the gun out. “If you don’t let me in, I’ll be forced to threaten you further, and I don’t want to do that, so kindly allow me inside your home, and I’ll make this quick.”
Jaejoong opened the door slowly, and the man placed the gun back into its holster. After he’d taken a few steps inside Jaejoong’s apartment, Jaejoong quietly shut the door behind him and leaned onto it - fearing what would happen next.
The stranger turned around and held out his hand, “Shim Changmin.”
Jaejoong stared at the outstretched hand for a few seconds before he lifted his gaze and warily met the eyes of the other man once more. “What do you want with me?”
“Well…” Changmin trailed off and stared at Jaejoong pointedly, “I’d like to know something.” He pointed at the sofa, “Take a seat.”
“I don’t think you should be telling me to do anything in my own home.”
The corner of the taller man’s lips curved into a smile, and he shook his head with amusement, “Fine then.” Changmin crossed his arms and studied Jaejoong, “How much do you know about Jung Yunho?”
“I…I know him well enough.” Jaejoong stuttered, “I’ve known him since we were children, and his family is, I mean…was, close with mine -“
“No, I don’t need to hear your socially correct bullshit. I want to know how much you really know about Jung Yunho, and not more about that social façade you two wear in public.”
Jaejoong kept the other man’s intense gaze, “I don’t know anything about -“
“Why did Yunho visit you?” Changmin asked, taking a step closer and bringing his intimidating presence nearer to Jaejoong. “Why, of all places, did Jung Yunho go to your apartment?”
“I don’t know.”
“You don’t know, or you just don’t want to tell me?”
Jaejoong returned Changmin’s look with an icy glare. “I don’t know why Yunho showed up here. In fact, I don’t even know why he came to me.” He shook his head and walked away from the other man, “I don’t know anything.”
“Mr. Kim, why do you think I’m really here?”
Jaejoong paused and kept his back turned to Changmin. “It’s more than just about Yunho, isn’t it?” he tensed up and balled his fists, “What do you want from me?”
“I’m here with a proposal.”
Changmin’s footsteps sounded loudly in the room, his steady steps almost in time with the beating of Jaejoong’s heart. He stopped a few steps away from Jaejoong and cleared his throat.
“You’re one of Yunho’s…” Jaejoong trailed off and turned around, “You’re part of the syndicate, and you’re here because you want something from me.”
The taller man nodded, “You’re correct in that assumption.” He took one step closer to Jaejoong, “And I’m sorry if my earlier questions worried you, but I asked them so that I could assess your relationship with Yunho and make sure that it is -“
Jaejoong turned around, “What are you trying to say -“
“You should listen to me.” Changmin interrupted, silencing Jaejoong effectively. He stared down Jaejoong, “I have a message for you from Yunho. Do you want to hear it? If you don’t, I could leave right now.”
Jaejoong swallowed hard. “I’ll listen.”
“Yunho has requested for you to join our syndicate. He thinks you would be a valuable asset to our group, and he also thinks that the benefits of being a member of our syndicate shall prove highly advantageous to you -“
“What?” Jaejoong practically snarled as he advanced toward Changmin. “Are you saying that he wants me to join him in your crime group?” he shook his head and walked away, “No, I refuse to.”
“You do realize that you’re in an unsafe spot at the moment, right Mr. Kim?” Changmin asked as Jaejoong walked away, “Your family is under threat at the moment. Your father has more enemies than he knows of -“
“My father is an upright man!” Jaejoong shouted, “If you are implying that he’s done anything to cause trouble, then -“
“Good people like him attract the attention of bad people like us.” Changmin said slowly, watching Jaejoong carefully. “All the good your father does for the community is sure to interrupt the plans of others. Don’t think that just because you’ve managed to escape death once that your family members will be as lucky. Your family needs protection now more than ever - not everyone is honest as you think.”
“So Yunho thinks that if I join your syndicate, I’ll be safe?” Jaejoong laughed bitterly and shook his head, “I don’t think so. Look at Yunho. He’s part of your group, isn’t he? He joined, and look at what had happened to him - he ended up bleeding and almost dying. Joining your group won’t give me anything in return.”
Changmin’s jaw tensed, “Don’t underestimate the capabilities of our group Mr. Kim. One slip up does not mean that we’re incapable of keeping your family safe. It would be stupid for you to reject our offer of charity.”
“It’s not charity if you expect something in return.” Jaejoong snapped, “What you want from me is servitude, and I don’t want to give that to you. I have pride, and I have morals. I refuse the offer, I’m sorry. Now please, get out.”
“You won’t be given this offer a second time.”
“I don’t need another offer. This is my first and final answer - no.” Jaejoong turned away from Changmin, “See yourself out.” He said finally before he walked to his bedroom and locked the door behind him.
As soon as he was within the confines of his room, Jaejoong slid down against the door and buried his face into his hands.
He was sick of it all.
o-o-o
If he hadn’t known what Jung Jihye had felt before, he was fairly sure that he knew how she had felt now. It was a sinking feeling in his stomach, and a constant nagging at the back of his mind - something was wrong.
As minutes passed by, the feeling refused to go away. Jaejoong ran a hand through his hair and gulped anxiously, his eyes focused on the hands of his wall clock that seemed to be moving too slowly.
He reached for his phone and dialed his mother’s number, just to make sure that nothing had happened because she was usually well aware of all of her children’s daily activities.
When his fingertips were merely millimeters away, the phone suddenly began to ring loudly. Jaejoong stared at the phone, and he could feel the terrible feeling of dread grow stronger.
Who was calling?
He closed the gap between his hand and the phone and answered it, gripping it tightly like his life depended on it.
“Hello?”
A dead silence followed after, and Jaejoong repeated his greeting. His heart pounded in his chest, and each second was absolute agony for him as the dread only grew as each second passed by.
“Your sisters, Han Sohyang and Kim Suyeon are in our possession. If you wish to see them alive, then you must pay our ransom.”
Jaejoong’s stomach dropped, and it felt like his heart stopped in his chest. He clutched the phone even tighter, and the man continued speaking, “We shall forward you the details. If you try to locate us, we shall kill them.”
He tried to find his voice, and after a weak attempt, he finally found it. Jaejoong’s voice was unsteady and shaky, “Who…who are you? Why are you -“
“You know who this is.” The speaker replied before he hung up.
The phone went dead, and the beeping of the dial tone could barely be heard over the beating of his heart. Jaejoong stared blankly at his desk, unbelieving of the news that he’d just heard.
His phone immediately began to ring once more, and he stared at in fear for a few seconds before he cautiously answered it once more.
The moment he heard the sobs on the other end of the line, he knew - it was his mother. Her voice, broken and miserable, voiced out the question he’d been thinking ever since his father’s birthday.
“Why us?” she cried before she broke out into a fresh round of sobs that sent chills down his spine and made his heart clench painfully in his chest.
Once again, he had no answers for her, and all he could do was listen to her sob as he tried to salvage his own sanity and composure. He couldn’t allow himself to break under the pressure, to break down and give up - he just couldn’t.
He would get his sisters back, no matter what, or he would die trying.
o-o-o
Days had passed, yet the next call never came. His father had roped in every single one of his allies, called in every single favor that he was owed - yet nothing. Not a single lead had turned up, and the police had no contribution whatsoever to finding his sisters.
Sohyang’s husband was an absolute mess, and Jaejoong was thankful for the existence of Sohyang’s children, or else he was fairly sure that the man would’ve done something incredibly drastic and stupid at that point. Although it pained Jaejoong to see such a strong man in such a fragile state, to know that he kept himself together for the sake of his children was reassuring as well.
Jaejoong however, could not say that he was going on well. Every single night, he feared that he would open his door only to see his sisters in a horrific state, or to receive a call telling him his sisters were dead. Countless fears plagued his mind, and he could not bring himself to ask anyone else for help - everyone was already focused and pained by their own issues.
Nor could he tell anyone about the calls he’d been receiving.
They were all the same, and all from the same number.
“You know who’s doing this to you.”
Did he? Did he know who was punishing his family? As much as Jaejoong did not want to push blame anywhere - Yunho was the only person he could see as a possible suspect. He was the only person common to the first incident, and with the knowledge of Yunho’s ties to the crime world, things seemingly fell into place, yet Jaejoong refused to believe what his paranoid mind suspected.
Jaejoong refused to believe that Yunho - the man that’d saved his life and had always treated his family with such kindness and respect would actually be capable of harming them in such a way.
Sometimes when he dreamed, he would remember the way Yunho had looked at him the night he’d stumbled into the apartment, bleeding and injured. It’d been hidden between flashes of pain, but Jaejoong could feel something from Yunho more than just thankfulness. He couldn’t place it, but he’d felt it.
They’d known each other for so many years, and although they’d never grown to become brothers, they’d developed a sort of familiarity with one another and learned small things about the other as well. While they were close enough to one another to call each other friends, they weren’t exactly best friends either. Their relationship had always been considered friendship, yet Jaejoong could always feel a certain restraint in their relationship.
He didn’t know when the restraint had come in, but it was only when they were older that he’d noticed it. He noticed how both of them acted awkwardly around each other, like there was some sort of huge divide between them, and he’d never known how to build a bridge between their separated states.
Despite that distance however, Jaejoong knew that he did know Yunho quite well. After years of being together, of attending boring social events, of dealing with numerous issues that were handed to an heir - they had a sort of understanding and appreciation toward each other in spite of all the constraints and ambiguity that surrounded their relationship.
If there was one thing Jaejoong was sure about when it came to Yunho, it was that Yunho’s honesty was hidden in his actions. Yunho was too skilled with words - he could wrap anyone around his fingers with flattery, he could enthrall people with his charisma, he could bring someone to tears with a harsh comment, he could teach anyone about anything with all the kinds of information stored in his brain, and he could lie without a batting an eyelash, but Yunho was not that skilled of an actor.
Jaejoong knew what he’d felt, and he knew what he’d seen. Yunho couldn’t have hurt his family in such a way because he didn’t have the power or desire to do so. Everything Jaejoong felt and remembered from that night battled against his fears and prevented him from believing that Yunho was capable of hurting his family. Although his rational mind told him to suspect Yunho, to not let him off the hook so easily, his heart refused to let him be cautious of him.
Despite his suspicions, the connections between the incidents, Jaejoong refused to give in. He couldn’t change the way he’d viewed Yunho for so many years.
He just couldn’t.
o-o-o
Jaejoong unlocked the door to his apartment, tired and weary from all the press conferences he’d been forced to attend. Each time, he’d used the same words to explain the situation that was only worsening and never improving. The press didn’t seem to catch the hint either - they continued on with their merciless crusade, hoping to get more of a reaction from him so that they could sell more of whatever they were selling.
Business was business, and it was unfortunate for them that they’d become the new source of gossip and income for the media.
As the day continued to slip through his fingers with every press meet, Jaejoong could feel his mood begin to sink as well. The chances of recovering a missing person decreased with each day, and as each minute passed by, Jaejoong knew that the chances of having his sisters returned in perfect health were getting slimmer as well.
Jaejoong bent down to take off his shoes, and he froze when he realized that the lights in his apartment were on. He placed his shoes down carefully and took small, quiet steps in an attempt to see who his visitor was without alerting the other person to his presence.
Once glance was all it took for him to recognize who it was.
“Yunho.”
The taller man was standing in the middle of his living room, and his eyes landed on Jaejoong immediately. He took two steps forward and stopped, “Jaejoong…” Yunho had the decency to avert his eyes from Jaejoong’s and his arms hung awkwardly at his sides as he tried to think of what to say to him, “I’m sorry -“
Yunho wasn’t able to finish his sentence because the moment he’d cast his eyes away; Jaejoong had approached him quickly and punched him right in the jaw. It wasn’t a perfect punch, and it wasn’t masterfully planned, but it made Jaejoong’s feelings known.
“This is all your fault.” Jaejoong choked out, overcome by his emotions. He shook his head and took a step away from Yunho, who was clutching his face and staring back at Jaejoong with an unreadable look on his face. “I thought you told me there would be no more of this, but look at my family now!”
“Jaejoong, I had nothing to do with this, I promise you.” Yunho said softly, but as he took a step forward, Jaejoong shrank away from him and took two steps back, refusing to look Yunho in the eye. “I never wanted anything like this to happen to your family…not after what….”
Yunho trailed off, and Jaejoong looked at him. He could feel his own feelings of guilt rise, and his heart constricted in his chest in pain for Yunho. but as much as he wanted to reach out for the other man and offer some form of comfort or understanding, he didn’t want to at the same time. He didn’t want to lean on Yunho - he didn’t want to confide in him or to ask him for help.
He didn’t want to depend on someone whose life would be dictated by others.
“I’m sorry.” Yunho said softly, “I’m so sorry.”
“Yunho…” Jaejoong bit his lip, “This is so fucked up. Why did this happen to us?” he asked, his voice resonating in the quiet of the entire apartment. He watched Yunho, waiting for some sort of reaction and desperately hoped that the man would have some sort of answer for him. “Did we do something wrong? Why are we being punished like this? Is it because I didn’t accept your offer?”
A frown crossed Yunho’s features, “What offer?”
Jaejoong shook his head, “One of your men approached me! He asked me about our relationship, and he…he told me that you wanted me to join the syndicate.”
Yunho studied Jaejoong carefully, “What? I…I didn’t, I never, I never told anyone to approach you.” He took a step closer, but Jaejoong backed way, “Trust me, please…I never told anyone to do that.”
“Is that so?”
Silence fell between them once more, and Jaejoong waited, his heart praying for some sort of reply. Minutes passed, and when Yunho made no move to say anything, Jaejoong could only let out a shaky sigh as his eyes turned downcast to the floor as he gathered his thoughts.
He looked back up at Yunho and shook his head as he recalled the memory of the news, “Your family…” Jaejoong swallowed hard, unable to continue his sentence, and met Yunho’s eyes, “Why…why are you here tonight Yunho? What do you want from me? I don’t think I have anything more to give you.”
Yunho took a step closer, but maintained a careful distance away from Jaejoong “I have an offer for you - and if you accept it, then I’m absolutely sure that your sisters will be saved and returned safely to your family.”
Jaejoong’s heart caught in his throat and he stared disbelievingly at Yunho, not sure if what he’d heard was truly what Yunho had said. “What is it? What is your offer?”
“If you want…” Yunho hesitated and looked away, “I’m offering you a place as…as my partner.”
The word partner resonated in Jaejoong’s ears. His mind tried to pick apart at the meaning of the word, but the only meaning he could think of was beyond what he thought Yunho would ask. As much as he wanted to believe that Yunho was simply asking him to assist him in future ventures, the way Yunho had spoken seemed to imply so much more than just a platonic relationship.
It was far from being a normal request, and Jaejoong couldn’t wrap his mind around the true meaning of Yunho’s words due to the shock of it all.
Jaejoong blinked rapidly, trying to gather his muddled thoughts so that he would be able to reply with something sensible. “What?” his heart’s pace quickened, and he tried to understand what Yunho was saying. “Are you saying...”
“The syndicate won’t be willing to help if you tried any other way. I’m of a high enough position, and if they were to know that you were my….partner, then they would be more willing to support my decision to help you.” Yunho took a step closer, “Jaejoong, if you entered the group now and let yourself be considered as a lower ranked member, then they would never help you, it would be too early for you to ask such a big favor from them -“
“Your partner…?” Jaejoong asked softly, “Are you saying…” he stared at Yunho questioningly, “You’re gay?”
Yunho’s eyes darted away from Jaejoong’s questioning gaze for a few seconds before he faced him once more, “That doesn’t matter, what matters is that -“
“I’ll do it.” Jaejoong said steely, his resolve firm. The offer, although highly unusual and unorthodox, was not something he could consider as too difficult. Although it went against his upright upbringing, Jaejoong could see no other way to have his sisters returned. The police were too slow, and none of the people his father had asked for help seemed to have any answers or any leads.
Yunho was his last option, and surely there were worst things to do than to be involved with Yunho.
He cleared his throat and met Yunho’s eyes. “I want my sisters back. If this is the price, then I shall be more than willing to do whatever it is that you need of me. I’m willing to be considered as your…partner.” He took a step closer to Yunho and calmed himself down for a few seconds before he resumed his reply, “I’m yours now, but you must promise me that they’ll come back safely -“
Yunho took a step forward and rested his palm against Jaejoong’s cheek, “I don’t want to own you.” He said softly, his eyes boring into Jaejoong’s. “You heard what I said. I said partners. I don’t want to be above you. We’re equals, and nothing less.”
Jaejoong averted his eyes from Yunho’s intense gaze, “If you say so.” He took a step back and pulled away from Yunho’s touch, the warmth leaving his skin immediately. He touched the place where Yunho had touched him and studied the other man carefully, “This…we’re in this together now, aren’t we?”
“When it’s all over…” Yunho replied, “You’ll be free to go. I won’t bother you, and I’ll make sure that the syndicate will never bother you either.”
“Will it be that easy?” Jaejoong mused, “Every day it seems like I get trapped further in whatever it is you don’t want me to be involved in.” The corners of his lips quirked into a bitter smile, “Haven’t you considered that perhaps I’m meant for this sort of life, after all?”
Yunho shook his head earnestly, “No, I don’t think so - and I don’t think I ever will feel like you’re meant for it. You’re too good for a life like mine.” He replied slowly, “Jaejoong…I promise, your sisters will be returned to your family. In preparation, I’ve taken a few steps in the right direction - I’ve already found out where they are.”
“Then where -“
Yunho shook his head, “No.” he swallowed hard, “You don’t need to know. I don’t want you to rush over there yourself and attempt to get them back on your own. Although you’ve taken your first steps into my world, I don’t want you delving in completely, and you wouldn’t be able to do anything on your own at the moment anyway.”
“Yunho…” Jaejoong sighed loudly and ran a hand through his hair. He looked around, focusing anywhere else other than Yunho before he declared quietly, “I’m tired.”
“You should go to bed then.” Yunho suggested as he glanced pointedly at Jaejoong’s nearby bedroom, “I’ve stayed for long enough, and it’s about time you went to bed, considering everything that’s happened to you lately. When your sisters are with me, I’ll be sure to call you.”
Yunho turned and made his way to leave, but just as he was close to the door, Jaejoong called his name. He turned around, “Yes?”
“Your wound, how did it heal?” Jaejoong asked softly, “Did you get a professional to look at it? You seem to be fine now.”
Yunho smiled, “You don’t have to worry about me Jaejoong, I’ll be fine.” He replied before he opened the door and walked out.
Jaejoong walked slowly to his bedroom, and didn’t bother to change into different clothes as he tumbled into bed. His eyes fluttered shut, and he found himself drifting off to sleep much easier than he had in days.
Everything he’d done, and everything he would be forced to do - it would all be worth it.
< >
Author’s Note: The eighth update of the fake Twelve Days of Christmas updates! I hope you guys all enjoyed my updates so far, and please continue to participate in the game. The choices for my next update are these: A Learning Process, For You. The Effects of a One-sided Crush and Someday. I hope that you guys all enjoy this chapter, and please do leave a comment! ♥