#the play

[heartholomewmewyeah]

Also day five murdered me in cold blood

[bookmarkthoughts]

The Play

I just finished reading "The Play" by Elle Kennedy! This was the third book in the Briar U series, and it was amazing! This book's main characters were Hunter Davenport and Demi Davis, who started off as friends, but their friendship grew into something deeper. When Demi Davis gets cheated on by her current boyfriend, Hunter is there to comfort her. I love tropes like this because they show how important it is to be friends with your partner, too! The humor between the two of them is unmatched and had me giggling throughout the book. This book was amazing, and Elle Kennedy always does an amazing job at creating sweet college romances! I can't wait to read the fourth book in the series, but sadly, it is not on Kindle Unlimited :( I think I will have to run to Barnes & Noble today to pick it up!

[jennarolansaid]

Hey everybody!!! Spread the word!!

Doing the school play is THE thing this year, since last years was so popular!! It's extremely cool 2 be part of it!!

They need

𐃘 actors!! Those r always needed, especially background actors & understudies !! (Mr. Reyes keeps trying to understudy 4 actors who can't make it!! It worsens the play!!!)

𐃘 stage crew!!!! People to help w scene changes & backstage stuff!!

𐃘 techies!! It's always gr8 to have ppl for the lights, mics, music, ect!!!

𐃘 costume/set designers!1!1! No play is good w/o good costumes and props!!!!

𐃘 student director(s) ! ! Having some1 to help set up the play that isn't the teacher is amazing!!!

𐃘 marketing helpers!!! I'm the #1 for the play marketing rn, but helpers will ALWAYSS b appreciated!1!1!

Reblog with ur thoughts !

[talkingorchids]

crashing out after watching Misery

[thesexydevils]

The Play | Second Act | Yandere Taehyung x Reader

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only.

I do not give permission for my work to be reposted anywhere, even with credit. But please feel free to reblog, comment, and interact. Thank you so much!

Pairing: Yandere Taehyung x Female Reader Word Count: 6,745

Author’s Note:

Hey everyone! Thank you SO much for all the love on the first act — your comments really made my day! 💜

Honestly, the second act drove me crazy. I rewrote some scenes three times because I just couldn’t get them right. Sorry for making you wait so long, but hey, good things take time, right?

Like before, I’m not Korean, but the story needed some Korean words and culture sprinkled in. If I messed anything up, please forgive me and pretend it’s part of the charm! 😅

Thanks again for sticking with me—I hope you enjoy this darker, crazier ride!

Summary: The second act of The Play delves even deeper into the darkness of Taehyung’s obsession. This is a story where obsession twists into madness. As his mother said in the first act, “My son remembers everything, and forgiveness is not in his nature.” You’ll soon discover just how true that is.

Warnings: Dark themes, obsession, manipulation, yandere behavior, noncon/forced kissing and touching, psychological horror, emotional coercion, murder, strangulation, body horror, implied forced pregnancy, unsettling power imbalance, gaslighting, 18+ only.

Act One - Until the Curtains Fall

Act Two – When the Curtain Bleeds

Y/N POV

Taehyung hadn’t returned the previous night, and by dawn, he had slipped away long before the first rays of sunlight broke through the horizon. There was something unsettling about his silence; he barely spoke a word at breakfast, the clinking of cutlery filling the air like a distant echo of unspoken thoughts. 

The warmth he once exuded, the comfort that felt like a promising bond between us, had vanished, replaced by an unsettling chill that wrapped around my heart.

The atmosphere had transformed into something unsettling, a serene calm that felt more like a storm’s calm before the chaos. I was overwhelmed by the eerie quiet, reminiscent of a vast, tranquil sea just moments before a tsunami could unleash its fury. A sense of dread crept into my heart, an instinctual warning that something was profoundly amiss.

Days rolled on, each one passing in a suffocating silence. Although Taehyung was physically present, he felt like a ghost haunting the corridors of our home. 

I could sense his eyes trailing my every movement like shadows lurking just out of sight, but whenever I turned to seek his gaze, he had vanished, slipping away like the morning mist. This haunting absence extended beyond just him; it felt like the entire household was suspended in a melancholic stillness.

Even Eomeonim had turned inwards, her presence muted as she busied herself with chores whenever I tried to reach out. It felt like the world was closing in on me, the isolation palpable and suffocating. 

The absence of connection echoed like a haunting refrain, pushing me to my limits. So, I resolved to visit my family, to seek solace in their familiarity.  

The following morning, I awoke with a fierce resolve that coursed through my veins like wildfire. I methodically packed a small bag, carefully rolling my clothes and tucking in my favorite book, its worn pages whispering stories of comfort and escape. As I prepared to leave, the sound of footsteps echoed ominously in the hallway, heralding Taehyung’s approach.

“I’m going to visit my family and will be staying there for the next few days,” I announced, my voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in my chest. He paused in the doorway, his figure silhouetted against the dim light, clutching the door handle as if it were the only thing tethering him to reality. 

At that moment, I could see a whirlwind of emotions swirling in his gaze, a tempest of anger, yearning, and something deeper that urged me to retreat. He stood there, a statue of tension, before he suddenly yanked the door shut with an overwhelming force. 

The resounding slam reverberated through the silent room, making my heart leap in alarm, a stark reminder of the chasm that was opening between us.

Despite the warning bells ringing in my mind, a small, unsettling smile crept onto his lips as he stepped toward me, the distance between us shrinking. An unsettling mix of anxiety and curiosity washed over me; my instinct was to create space, yet he seemed to pull me closer, as if drawn by an unseen force, leaving me unsure of what to say or do next.

His robust arm snaked around my waist, drawing me in with a forceful pull that pressed me against his solid chest. My palms flattened against the taut muscles beneath his shirt, and the space between our faces dwindled to mere inches, charged with an intensity that took my breath away. 

“Taehyung?” I gasped, shock rippling through me. “What are you doing? I…” My voice faltered, words evaporating as his hold on me tightened. My heart raced like a wild drum in my chest, leaving me breathless. 

“Shouldn’t a wife seek permission from her husband before she decides to leave for a few days?”

The playful glint in his eyes clashed with the gravity of his deep voice, devoid of any hint of humor. I squirmed in an attempt to escape the iron hold he had on me, but instead of loosening his grip, he pressed me against the nearest wall, our bodies colliding with a jarring thud.

“Taehyung?” I cried out, a mixture of fear and disbelief coating my voice. His face moved in closer, the warmth of his breath grazing my skin, and a surge of panic surged through my veins. 

I pushed him away with all my might and darted toward the room's exit, but he was quicker, his long fingers wrapping around my wrist with a vice-like grip that yanked me back effortlessly.

My back hit the hard contours of his chest, warmth engulfing me as he held me captive. One hand twisted my wrist behind me, while his other hand seized my jaw, forcing me to look directly into his eyes. 

“Please…” I whispered, the plea trapped in my throat, but before I could articulate my fear, his palm covered my mouth, silencing my words.

With a menacing calm, he nudged my head so I could see our reflections in the dressing mirror before us.

“It’s time for a small punishment, Love.” Terror clawed at my insides as I cried out, but his strong grip remained unyielding. “Sssshhh... It’s not going to hurt much.” 

In the mirror, our eyes locked; his expression was not that of the man I had married. A shadow loomed behind his gaze, a darkness that made my skin crawl in fear.

Desperation gripped me as my free hand clawed at his wrist, attempting to pry it from my mouth. He found amusement in my struggle, a chuckle escaping his lips that only deepened my dread. 

But when my nails dug into his skin, his expression twisted from amusement to aggression, his eyes narrowing in a furious glare that sent a chill through me.

Then, without warning, he pressed his lips to my cheek, the pressure transforming from gentle to possessive as he moved lower, tracing a path down to my neck. His lips left a warm trail against my skin, his tongue painting sinful patterns while he suckled lightly at the sensitive flesh. 

Taehyung shifted his focus to my shoulder, and despite my frantic attempts to break free, his hold only tightened, securing me in place.

For a fleeting moment, he glanced up from my shoulder, a mischievous wink dancing in his eyes, causing my heart to drop further into dread. 

Before I could think to react, his lips returned to my skin, and he sank his teeth into me with a force that made my breath hitch and my cries escape into muffled gasps.

I screamed, a panicked sound swallowed by his firm hand, twisting away as the sharp pain radiated through me. Yet with every desperate attempt to escape, his grip hardened, and each struggle lent his savage bites a cruel intensity, sending waves of fear and pain coursing through me.

After what felt like an eternity, he finally paused, and my body became a limp rag doll, devoid of strength. Taehyung withdrew his hand from my mouth and released my bruised wrist, as if relinquishing a possession. 

The facade was back on; he resumed his role as the doting husband. With surprising delicacy, he cradled my form and set me gently onto the plush bed, the soft mattress sinking beneath my weight like quicksand.

He tenderly pushed the strands of hair that clung to my damp face, his fingertips brushing against my skin as he wiped away the silent tears staining my cheeks. 

I remained engulfed in sorrow, my neck ached, each subtle movement sending sharp, searing pain racing through my body. My wrist pulsed rhythmically, a deep bruise blossoming beneath the skin, marking me with a memory I couldn't erase.

From his pocket, Taehyung retrieved a pristine handkerchief and pressed it lightly against my shoulder, as if that simple gesture could mitigate the pain.“I’ll have someone bring you an ointment soon.” He said sweetly, the smoothness of his voice belying the violence that had just transpired. 

“It may leave a small scar, but I assure you, it will be a beautiful one.” His expression was devoid of any remorse; it was as if he couldn’t comprehend the atrocity of his actions or the turmoil radiating from me.

How could he be so unnervingly calm after the storm he had unleashed on my spirit? Who was this stranger masquerading as my husband? The man I had once envisioned a future with?

“I know it hurts, but it is a lesson you must learn.” His gentle hand cupped my chin, yet the warmth did little to comfort me; instead, it sent a shiver of disgust racing through my veins. He forced me to meet his gaze, his eyes glinting with a delight that sent chills down my spine. 

“My love, I can forgive many things, but abandoning me is not one of them. I truly dislike punishing you. Please, don’t force my hand.” Immobilized, I sat frozen, unable to blink, as if fear had wrapped its cold fingers around me.

As he leaned in closer, an abhorrently familiar sensation washed over me; I felt his lips graze the corner of my mouth, and I found myself frozen, paralyzed by the sheer horror of it all. The bile churned violently within me, threatening to erupt as the urge to vomit clawed its way up my throat.

Finally, he left the room, and a fragile breath rushed back into my lungs. Stumbling to the mirror, dread coiled in my stomach as I caught sight of my own reflection. 

The horror that met me was a painful reminder of the reality I was trapped in, my eyes wide and haunted, reflecting a life turned upside down in mere moments.

The heavy wooden door swung open with a soft creak, and Eomeonim stepped into the dimly lit room, a small porcelain bowl cradled gently in her slender hands. Her eyes widened for an instant as they met mine, a flash of horror reflecting the chaos that had unfolded moments before. 

But she quickly regained her composure, her expression shifting to one of calm resolve. “Taehyung told me you need ointment. Let me help you.” She said, her voice soothing yet edged with concern.

“How can you stay so calm after witnessing what your son is capable of?” I blurted out, disbelief coloring my tone as I fought against the heaviness in my chest.

With careful fingers, she parted the fabric from my shoulder, revealing a raw, angry bite mark that seemed to throb in the dim light. Gently, she began to apply the cool salve, each touch of her fingers offering a fleeting relief against the searing pain. 

As she worked, her voice lowered to a near whisper, laced with urgency and fear. “Y/N, please, do not provoke him. He is capable of far worse than what you’ve experienced, and no one, not even I, will come to your aid. I am so sorry, my child.”

Her words sliced through me, and hot tears welled in my eyes, spilling down my cheeks as the reality of her message sank in. Eomeonim continued wrapping my bruised wrist, her movements tender yet laced with urgency. 

When she finally finished, she rose and drifted toward the door, but paused before leaving. “Y/N, be good, be careful, and always remember this; in a house like this, even the walls have ears.”

With that, the door clicked shut, leaving me enveloped in a suffocating silence, accompanied only by the throbbing pain and the turmoil of my thoughts.

***

The clock had struck well past midnight, and the slender crescent moon floated in the sky, casting a silvery light that struggled to penetrate the shifting veil of clouds. I had spent the entire day in solitude, grappling with my racing thoughts, trying to navigate the tumultuous sea of my emotions and plot my next move. 

A fierce longing to escape engulfed me; to seek out my family and recount the chaos of the day swirled in my mind. Yet, deep down, I was painfully aware of the grip Taehyung had on this village. 

The villagers, with their unwavering loyalty, would undoubtedly side with him. He had them entranced with his charismatic façade, and I feared that no one would believe my truth over his spellbinding lies.

With a heavy heart, I approached the window, longing for answers in the stillness of the night. Just then, I caught sight of a tall figure meandering through the damp grass of the garden, his silhouette illuminated by a fleeting burst of moonlight as the clouds briefly parted.

“Dae-hyun?” I whispered, barely able to comprehend the sight before me. Was it truly him, or merely a figment birthed from the wreckage of today’s horrors? No, I had to know for sure.

I quickly wrapped a thick, woolen shawl around my shoulders, its weight providing a small solace against the biting cold that draped the night air. Climbing through the narrow frame of the window, I felt a surge of relief that my room was on the ground floor, granting me easy access to the outside world.

As the night deepened, a dense fog crept in, swirling around me and obscuring my view, making the search for Dae-hyun all the more challenging. Just when I feared the darkness had swallowed him whole, I spotted him slipping into a small shed nestled a few paces into the forest that fringed our garden. My instincts flared with caution as I followed, each step laden with uncertainty and trepidation.

Near the window, I crouched low, my heart racing as I peered into the cramped space. The dim light struggled to break through the thick dust and shadows, illuminating a chaotic collection of rusting tools, tattered curtains, and an old oil lamp that flickered weakly, casting eerie shapes on the walls.

In the far corner, Dae-hyun moved restlessly, his anxiety palpable as he paced like a caged animal, glancing repeatedly at the door as if he were anticipating a storm. Suddenly, the door creaked open, revealing a figure cloaked in shadow. He stepped into the dim light, and a sinking feeling settled in my stomach as I recognized the silhouette.

“What are you doing here, Dae-hyun?” A smooth and authoritative voice cut through the dusty air, its calmness contrasting sharply with the tension.

“No, no, it can’t be possible. It can’t be him! Why is he here?” I muttered softly, my heart racing. The voice was hauntingly familiar, and I desperately wished it were just a trick of my imagination. As the figure moved into the light, my worst fears were realized, it was Taehyung.

“Taehyung-ssi, what other option do I have? I’ve lost everything; my money, my trust, and I can't even face my family after all of this. Please, you must give me more money, or at the very least, let me return to the village.” Dae-hyun pleaded, his voice strained, his eyes wide with desperation, reflecting the dim glow of the lamp.

Taehyung’s laughter echoed coldly, the sound slicing through the air with an unsettling ease. “I don’t owe you anything, Dae-hyun. You were more than compensated for your part in this charade. Your troubles are no longer my concern.” 

He replied, his tone dripping with disdain. Confusion swirled like a storm within me.  ‘Why was this happening? What could Taehyung gain from this twisted game?’

Dae-hyun stepped closer, his face flushed with anger and frustration, fists trembling by his sides. “You’ll regret this, Taehyung. The villagers will know the truth. This entire plot was yours! You crafted it meticulously, all to win Y/N’s love. You paid me to play the perfect suitor, only to break her heart on the day of the wedding, clearing the path for you to swoop in as her knight in shining armor.”

The air thickened with tension, crackling like electricity, as Dae-hyun’s words hung heavily in the dimly lit shed. The weight of betrayal and desperation pressed down on all of us, and I could feel the impending confrontation looming like a storm on the horizon.

Before a shocked gasp could escape my lips, I swiftly covered my mouth with trembling fingers, desperate to suppress the turmoil raging within me. My surroundings felt like a dizzying whirlpool, and a compulsion to cry out and scream surged through me like a tidal wave. 

The rough, cold surface of the moss-stained wooden shed pressed uncomfortably against my back, a stark reminder of how trapped I truly was.

Then I heard it, my husband’s laughter, chilling and devoid of warmth, slicing through the air and shattering the remnants of my trust. “Do you really think someone will believe you over me?” 

Taehyung mocked, his tone laced with amusement that felt like ice. I peered through the shadows inside the shed and caught a glimpse of Dae-hyun, his face twisted with desperation.

“Y/N will!” Dae-hyun replied with a bravado that seemed almost defiant. “She’s been living with you for months; she must see the monster lurking beneath your skin. So yes, the girl you’ve been so obsessively fixated on will believe me.” His words dripped with challenge as he taunted Taehyung.

Even on this frigid night, a sheen of sweat broke out on my forehead, an ironic contrast to the icy dread that seeped into my bones. Taehyung pivoted to face Dae-hyun again, his expression blank, but a manic glint flickered in his eyes like a predator sizing up its prey. An instinctive shiver raced down my spine; everything in me screamed to escape this nightmarish scene, to flee to safety.

Yet my legs felt like they were chained to the ground, burdened by an impenetrable weight. Though my mind screamed for action, my body remained stubbornly still, paralyzed by the gravity of the moment.

“How much money do you need?” Taehyung asked, advancing slowly toward Dae-hyun. His voice was chillingly calm, almost rehearsed. “I knew you would understand.” Dae-hyun’s tone shifted to one of delight, as if he had just landed the jackpot. 

“I was thinking of buying a house just two villages away.” He spoke with a relaxed demeanor, still blissfully unaware of Taehyung’s sinister intentions as he grasped the curtain fabric tightly, fingers curling around it with a predatory intent.

“The house needs to be spacious enough to accommodate my parents as well, and ... mmmm.” Without warning, Taehyung lunged, snapping a thick fabric up around his head like a curtain falling on a dramatic scene, obscuring his fierce expression. 

With a sudden shift, he yanked Dae-hyun backwards, sending him crashing onto the cold, hard floor. The heavy fabric muffled his protests, warping his voice into a disoriented plea as he struggled against the vice-like grip Taehyung held on him. 

But Taehyung's laughter echoed menacingly, a deep, rumbling sound that filled the room with foreboding, that sent chills down my spine.

“You really thought you could waltz in here and blackmail me? I've encountered my fair share of foolishness in life, but you’ve ascended to unparalleled levels of stupidity. But what truly infuriates me, Dae-hyun, is your audacity to utter my wife’s name in my presence, as if your pea-sized brain could ever comprehend the depth of my possessiveness over her.” Taehyung sneered, a glint of something dangerous flickering in his eyes.

Gripping a sinister-looking tool; its blade glinting dangerously in the dim light; Taehyung's eyes burned with an unsettling intensity. I strained to comprehend what he was about to do, but before my mind could catch up, he reared back and thrust the weapon forward, plunging it into Dae-hyun's chest with a sickening force. 

Time seemed to freeze as a surge of horror washed over me; I staggered backwards, hands flying to my mouth as I stifled a scream, the sound choking me.

The sickening sound of the stabbing, paired with Dae-hyun's gasping, choked cries, ricocheted through my mind, an indelible mark of terror and despair.

“Y/N is mine!” Taehyung declared, his voice dripping with venom. “You were nothing more than a pawn in this twisted game, and you dared to think you could come between us. You are an INSECT. A BASTARD. A FUCKING LOWLIFE.”

A resounding thud pierced the air; like the heavy thump of a curtain falling at the end of a chilling performance; and then, the room was swallowed by an oppressive silence, thick and suffocating, as if the very atmosphere had turned to lead, leaving only an overwhelming sense of dread hanging heavily in the air.

***

The dried leaves crackled beneath the weight of their footsteps as two devoted servants approached the shed. Hidden behind the gnarled trunk of an ancient tree. The chill in the air pierced through my clothes, and hot tears stung my eyes, yet I fought against the tide of despair that threatened to overwhelm me. 

I had to escape this nightmare; getting as far away as possible was my only goal. A chilling breeze numbed my hands and feet, and my entire body trembled with the cold, yet I remained frozen in place. I waited, heart pounding, for the perfect moment to slip away before either the servants or Taehyung could catch sight of me.

Peeking cautiously from my hiding spot, I watched as the servants reverently wrapped the lifeless body in the very curtain Taehyung had used. Silent sobs escaped my lips as I mourned not only the lost life but also the shattered dreams of a girl who had longed for a future filled with love and family. 

Despite the suffocating pain of betrayal gnawing at my insides, I knew I had to be resolute; I needed to bide my time and await the perfect opportunity to slip away unnoticed.

That moment arrived as the servants hoisted the body into their arms, and I heard Taehyung's commanding voice pierce the air: “Bury the body deep; I don’t want this problem to resurface.”

The servants bowed deeply, their faces obscured as they murmured in unison, “Na-euri, it will be done as you wish.” With that, they turned and carried the burden away, their footsteps fading into the distance, while Taehyung retreated into the shadowed recesses of the shed. 

This was my moment. Summoning every ounce of courage within me, I carefully navigated my way from behind the tree, each movement deliberate and as silent as the falling dusk around me.

As soon as I put enough distance between myself and the shed, adrenaline surged through my veins, propelling me to sprint across the garden, dodging the low-hanging branches and wild bushes. 

I reached my window, a familiar escape, and clumsily climbed through the frame, still clutching my heart in my throat. I snatched my bag, carefully packed with essentials, hoping it would be the key to reuniting with my family.

With every ounce of caution, I opened my door and slipped out into the shadowy hallway, my senses heightened as every sound echoed eerily around me. I constantly glanced over my shoulder, anxiety tightening like a vice around my chest. Just then, a firm hand yanked me into a nearby room, the door thudding shut with a sense of finality. 

“Eomeonim?” I whispered, a tremor in my voice as panic tightened its grip on my heart.

“What happened? Why are you running away?” She asked, her voice low and urgent, as if the walls had ears. “Do you have any idea what your son has done? He is a monster!” I felt the words burst forth like a dam breaking, the weight of my terror crashing down.

“What did he do? Tell me!” she implored, gripping my hand tightly, her eyes wide with anxiety. “Taehyung, your son, my husband... he killed Dae-hyun. I saw everything.” The revelation fell heavily between us, and I watched her as a look of horror spread across her features, causing her to stagger against the door, her eyes wide and glassy.

Feeling the weight of despair crashing down like a tidal wave, I sank to my knees, the rough floor biting into my skin. I crawled forward on trembling limbs, my fingers wrapping around her leg, desperation flashing in my gaze. 

“Eomeonim, please help me. I want to go to my parents. I can’t stay here! Eomeonim, please!” My voice cracked, each word soaked in anguish.

I held onto her, tears slipping down my cheeks, pooling on the faded fabric of her skirt. “Y/N, this is almost impossible. I’m so sorry, my child, but I am as powerless as you.” She responded, her face shadowed with sorrow, her voice trembling under the weight of my fear. I shook my head vehemently, my palms pressed together in desperate supplication. 

“No, please! You are his mother; he will listen to you!” I cried out, the desperation ringing in my voice resonating through the dim room, pleading for a spark of hope in our dark reality.

She knelt before me, her hands trembling as they enveloped mine. “I can’t,” she whispered, desperation lacing her voice. “If I do, he will kill his own father.” I gazed into her eyes, brimming with sorrow, tears threatening to spill over.

“But... but he loves Abeonim. Taehyung wouldn't do anything.”Her face darkened, a storm cloud overshadowing her features. 

“His love has always been twisted, a dark obsession that clawed at his soul.” Her voice trembled, breaking on the words, each one heavy with anguish.

“Years ago, he wrote this play; an intricate tapestry of his torment and fixation. When Tae-soo discovered Taehyung's dangerous infatuation with you, he fought tooth and nail to pull him back from the edge. We thought Taehyung was finally moving on, but then, on that chilling day, Tae-soo suffered a sudden stroke. The doctor wore a grim expression as he delivered the news; Tae-soo would never walk again, be able to speak, or even lift a finger. ”

She paused, swallowing hard as tears glistened in her eyes. “Just days later, a handmaid stumbled into my room, her eyes wide with terror. Panting, she revealed the horrific truth: Taehyung had slipped something sinister into Tae-soo’s evening tea, the very act that sealed his fate.”

Suddenly, she rose to her feet, her body trembling, and took several faltering steps away from me, the distance between us charged with an unbearable heaviness, as if the weight of her revelation draped over us like a suffocating iron curtain. 

“Eomeonim, what happened to the handmaid?” The knot in my gut twisted tighter with dread; still, I needed her to utter the dreadful reality.

“As she unveiled the depths of my son's monstrous actions, Taehyung entered my room, all simmering rage and cold intimidation. He ordered me to forget those truths, to focus instead on caring for his father. I defied him, declaring that he would pay for this, that I wouldn’t allow a creature like him to roam free while the maid stood as a witness to his crime. But before I could summon the guards, he acted with horrifying swiftness. In a cruel twist, Taehyung snatched his silk scarf and strangled the poor girl before my very eyes.” 

Her voice shattered, fresh tears cascading down her cheeks, mirroring my own overwhelming horror as I absorbed the monstrous depths of betrayal. “That night, I tried to save her.” His mother began, her voice low and trembling. 

“The echo of her final breath haunts me still, the way her body crumpled to the floor, lifeless and limp, like a treasured doll tossed aside. And Taehyung… he stood there, an unmoving shadow, watching with a chilling indifference that sent shivers down my spine."

She choked on her word and took some deep breaths. "The next morning, whispers floated through the village like smoke, claiming she had eloped with a lover. Yet, the truth remained buried beneath layers of deception. My son marched on as if nothing had shattered, even taking on the burden of his paralyzed father with an air of misguided nobility.”

My heart fractured at the thought of her family, engulfed by a grief so profound it must have felt like drowning. Eomeonim turned to me, her gaze heavy with understanding and sorrow.

“He bided his time, meticulously crafting a tale that twisted reality to fulfill his ambitions. He could have come to your father to seek your hand, yet the nobles would have scorned him, casting him into the shadows. Taehyung yearned for respect and power, so he ensnared Dae-hyun in this dark narrative, weaving a story designed to elicit both sympathy and admiration from the villagers, whether they wore silk or rags. He believed that by guarding a girl’s honor, he could elevate himself in their eyes.”

As her words sank in, a heavy weight settled in my chest, but I refused to let despair define me. “There has to be a way! Please, I beg you, help me find it!”

Her eyes softened, shimmering with unshed tears as she took a deep, steadying breath. “Y/N, you must understand that you can’t go to your parents. You have to vanish completely; if he finds you again, there will be no mercy from him.” 

For a fleeting moment, I hesitated, grappling with the idea of leaving everything I knew behind, all because of one man’s twisted madness.

“I know, Eomeonim,” I said, my voice trembling. “But I can’t stay here, not with him. I just can’t … he’s a murderer.” The words caught in my throat, heavy with the weight of my fear.

She reached out, her hand trembling ever so slightly as she grasped my shoulder, her eyes searching mine with a fierce determination. 

“I understand your fear, and I sincerely hope you find freedom from him soon. But right now, we need to act quickly. I’ve prepared some clothes for our maid; you need to change into them immediately. After that, head to the kitchen ... the small, unseen entrance there is meant for the servants only. Once you’re inside the quarters, make your way to the last room, where you will discover a hidden path. This path will lead you to the bustling markets. Seek out a carriage that is delivering vegetables; if you part with enough coins, they will agree to transport you to the next village. You must keep moving, at least three or four villages away to ensure your safety. Do you understand everything I’ve said?”

She pressed the neatly folded clothes into my hands, and just as I turned to leave, she placed a small pouch filled with coins into my palm. “This is all I have for now. These coins will help you escape and cover your needs for the next few days. Once the situation settles, I promise to inform your parents about everything.”

In that moment, a swell of gratitude filled my chest, and I stepped forward, enveloping her in a tight embrace. It was an embrace filled with unspoken thanks and the hope of safety. As I finally let her go, I glanced back at her, my heart aching, overwhelmed with appreciation for everything she had done to protect me.

***

I wrapped my shawl tightly around my face, the biting cold nipping fiercely at my exposed skin. Each step felt heavy as I followed the path, the flickering glow of lanterns in the market growing closer with every heartbeat. Yet, with every hurried footfall, anxiety twisted in my stomach like a restless serpent; the next carriage would arrive with dawn, and the minutes dragged on far too slowly.

As I reached the market, my heart sank. The streets lay in eerie silence, deserted and shrouded in the shadows of the night. My eyes scanned my surroundings for a refuge, the instinct to hide clawing at me. 

There, beneath the sprawling branches of an old tree, a lonely bench sat, almost as if it were waiting for me. I slid into its embrace, feeling the cool dampness of the wood seep into my bones as I waited for the first light of morning. But exhaustion crashed over me like a tidal wave, my head growing heavier, and surrendering to sleep became an inescapable temptation.

When I finally stirred, a gentle hand brushed through my hair, stirring me from slumber. Panic ignited a jolt through my body as I bolted upright. 

“Taehyung?” I gasped, spotting him calmly settled beside me, the pale light of the moon illuminating his features. My heart raced as I instinctively recoiled, stumbling backward until my back thudded against the rough stone wall behind me. 

My mind scrambled for words, a feeble excuse ready to spill from my lips, but he silenced me with a steady gaze.

“You saw me, didn’t you?” His voice was low, controlled, as he rose, hands buried in his pockets, slowly approaching. I scrambled away from him, retreating until the wall left no room for escape. 

“I always know where you are, no matter how clever you think you are at hiding. I’m not here to explain myself, but you have a choice.” He said, his tone shifting, a flicker of challenge sparkling in his eyes. 

“You can run if that’s what you truly want.” The shadowy night enveloped us, heavy with unspoken tension and choices yet to be made.

A torrent of panic washed over me, and I felt my heart race as I met his unsettling gaze, which shimmered with something predatory. He crouched before me, his hands cradling my face with an unsettling tenderness, brushing back the stray strands of hair that clung to my skin. 

“Let’s play a simple game of cat and mouse.” He murmured, his voice smooth yet laced with an edge that sent shivers down my spine. 

“You will run, and I will chase. If you can reach the boundary of our village before dawn breaks, I will let you go. But if I catch you first, prepare for a punishment that will come straight from the depths of my darkest desires.”

Before my mind could fully grasp the gravity of his words, he closed the distance between us with sudden, fierce urgency. His hand curled around my face, tilting it up as his lips crashed against mine in a harsh, demanding kiss. Panic ignited inside me, sharp and cold, as I instinctively pushed against his broad shoulders, struggling to break free; but his grip only tightened.

His mouth was relentless, a force that overwhelmed every thought, every breath. The heat of him pressed against my skin, yet beneath the surface lurked something darker, possessive, hungry. 

Then, without warning, his teeth sank into my lower lip. Pain exploded sharp and raw, and a strangled cry tried to escape my throat, only to be muffled by the crushing press of his lips.

The metallic taste of blood filled my mouth, mingling with the dizzy swirl of fear and confusion that engulfed me. His tongue traced slowly, torturously, around my lips, seeking to claim me, to dominate. I gasped, desperate for air, and finally managed to shove him back, breaking the kiss with trembling hands.

But his hand jerked my hair cruelly, forcing my eyes to meet his, dark, fierce, and unyielding. “Run!” He commanded, voice low and deadly, shattering what little control I thought I had.

Fear surged through me like a wild fire, igniting my instincts. I stumbled backward, my heart hammering against my ribcage, feeling like a trapped animal facing a predator. 

Tears streamed down my cheeks, blurring my vision as I instinctively fled, heart racing and mind clouded with fear. I ran without a plan, urging my legs to take me as far from him as possible, the instinct to survive propelling me forward into the darkness.

With each turn I took, there he was; Taehyung, a dark silhouette waiting for me like a predator anticipating its prey. I pushed on, gasping for breath, yet my energy dwindled with every frantic step. 

Exhaustion crept over me like a cold shadow, and finally, I leaned against a rough wall for a brief respite. My clothes clung to my skin, damp from sweat, my lips felt parched and cracked, and a disorienting swirl enveloped my mind. When I attempted to run again, my legs betrayed me, sending me sprawling to the ground.

“Tsk, tsk, tsk, tsk… my poor wife.” His polished shoes entered my line of sight, gleaming with a chilling confidence. A wave of despair crashed over me, the cries I let out echoing in the still air. My fate felt irrevocably sealed; I would never escape this nightmare. Taehyung looked down at me, a sly smirk playing on his lips. “All that effort, just to end up right back here, where you belong, love.”

My heart sank as I glanced around, the chilling realization dawning upon me that the wall I had leaned against was the very structure of his house. Silent tears streamed down my cheeks, a testament to my feeling of utter helplessness.

Suddenly, his hand shot down, fingers gripping my hair like a vice, yanking my head up to meet his cold gaze. “Now it’s time for punishment, love. I’ll make sure you never dare to leave me again. And don’t worry … I’ve already taken care of my mother. She won’t be here to interrupt our little time together.”

“NO, NO... what did you do to them?” My voice cracked with terror. Taehyung's smirk grew wider, his grip on my hair tightening painfully. He yanked me roughly, dragging me behind him, my scalp screaming in protest as I kicked and screamed in vain. My pleas were swallowed by the emptiness around us.

With a powerful kick, he swung the door open and hurled me into our room. I crumpled to the floor, my knees scraping painfully against the hardwood, the sting radiating through my battered body. A harsh click resonated in the somber air, he had locked the doors. 

Lying there, I glanced back in horror as Taehyung slowly unbuttoned his shirt, each movement deliberate, his eyes fixated on me with an unsettling intensity. His hands reached out, seizing my leg with brutal force, pulling me towards him as I desperately fought against the inevitable.

Eight months later

As I stared up at the vast expanse of the night sky, thick with swirling clouds and shimmering stars, an ache settled in my chest. I found myself yearning for the freedom of flight that only the birds seemed to possess. 

The fabric of the curtains stirred gently in the cool evening air, creating a soft rustling sound that mingled with the distant murmurs of the night. I could hear his footsteps approaching, echoing softly across the wooden floor before he stepped into the room, his silhouette framed by the doorway as he closed the door securely behind him with a gentle but definitive click.

“Love, it’s getting cold,” Taehyung said, his voice calm but with an edge that made me uneasy. “You’ll get ill if you stay here too long. You should rest.” He moved closer, pushing the curtains aside and shutting the window, as if trying to seal away the chill from outside as well as any chance of escape.

I instinctively stepped back toward the bed, seeking refuge, but he caught my wrist gently yet firmly, pulling me into his arms. His presence felt overwhelming, and I couldn’t help but feel a mix of fear and apprehension as I caught our reflections in the mirror. The piercing look in his eyes held a fierce intensity, and as he caressed my belly, a rush of conflicting emotions surged through me.

“Told you, you can’t run when you’re pregnant.” He whispered, his breath warm against my neck, but the underlying threat in his tone sent another wave of fear coursing through me.

He leaned in closer, pressing a soft kiss to my shoulder, the very spot he had marked in a moment of passion now a reminder of the power he wielded over me. 

In the mirror, I saw the content smile on his handsome face; a smile that felt more like a mask than an expression of joy. His play had taken shape just as he had envisioned, earning him accolades despite the blood-stained curtain that signified the darker elements of his art and his nature.

In that moment, as I stood trapped between his arms and the reflection of his captivating yet frightening presence, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was caught in a world he controlled; a world where love and fear danced dangerously close together.

The End

🖤 Announcement 🖤

With The Play coming to its haunting end, a new series begins to take shape…

🎨 Palette of Obsession – a collection of yandere one-shots, each painted in a different color, each revealing a unique shade of love turned dark.

Red. Purple. Orange. White. Pink. Yellow. Blue.

Seven colors. Seven stories. Seven obsessions.

Stay close… the first drop of color will fall soon.

[thesexydevils]

The Play | Yandere Taehyung x Reader

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only.

I do not give permission for my work to be re-posted anywhere, even with credit. But please re-blog, comment, and interact. Thank you!

Pairing: Yandere Taehyung x Female Reader

Word Count: 4,292

Author’s Note:

This is my very first Taehyung two-shot and I had so much fun writing it — I hope you have just as much fun reading it!

I’m not Korean, and I’ve done my best to research the names, cultural references, and language used in this story. If I’ve made any mistakes, I sincerely apologize and am open to kind corrections.

Thank you so much for reading. 💜

Reblogs, comments, and feedback are deeply appreciated!

Summary:

End of the 1800s. A beautiful day meant for vows, for futures, for dreams—destroyed in a single breath. You were meant to be a bride. But instead of walking into forever, you stepped into a stage already set, every line rehearsed, every fall of the curtain planned. And the man behind it all? The one who calls himself your savior.

Warnings:

Dark themes, obsession, manipulation, yandere behavior, noncon/forced kissing and touching, psychological horror, emotional coercion, murder, strangulation, body horror, implied forced pregnancy, unsettling power imbalance, gaslighting, 18+ only.

Act One – Until the Curtains Fall

Y/N POV

Tears streamed down my cheeks, each drop a reflection of my shattered hopes as I gazed at what was supposed to be the most beautiful day of my life, now lying in ruins like shattered glass scattered across the floor. 

My bridal bouquet, once a symbol of joy and hope, lay discarded beside me, the pristine white roses now crushed and wilted, echoing the breaking of my dreams.

My father’s furious outburst pierced the air, while my mother’s silent tears fell like raindrops, each one intensifying the reality of this moment.

“How can he do this to my daughter? How could he possibly run away from his own wedding?” My father’s anguished scream sliced through the haze of disbelief surrounding me, jolting me into the harsh reality of the situation.

With trembling legs, I stood up and took a hesitant step toward him, my heart pounding like a drum in my chest. I placed my trembling hand on his shoulder, desperate to offer comfort, even as I felt the weight of despair settling in. 

He turned to me, his grasp tightening around my hand, his eyes filled with helplessness. “What will your future hold now?” he cried, his voice thick with grief and confusion.

“No one will care about the truth; they will all cast blame on you. How can I protect you from their judgment and the questions of prying eyes?"

For the first time in my 19 years, I witnessed my father crumble, tears spilling down his weathered cheeks. “Kyung-jae?”

A voice called out from the dimly lit doorway, cutting through the heavy silence. When my father lifted his gaze, the vulnerability in his eyes morphed into a storm of fury. 

He released my hand as if it were a lifeline slipping away, and charged towards the man standing awkwardly at the entrance. “Where is he? Where is your cowardly son?” My father's voice thundered through the room, anguish steeped in every syllable. 

The man who should have been my father-in-law, once a figure of pride in our village, now stood with his head bent low, shame washing over him. “I am deeply sorry, Kyung-jae. I never imagined my son would do such a thing. Please, forgive me and my family?” 

A humorless laugh erupted from my father, echoing painfully in the tense air. “Do you see my little girl?” He spat, his voice trembling with barely contained rage. 

“Today should have been one of the happiest moments of her life, and your son has shattered it! He was the one who begged for her hand, and your apologies won't protect her or her future from this heartbreak.”

The man stood there, stricken and defeated, his gaze fixed on the floor as if it held the answers to his son’s treachery. 

Even though my rational mind knew he bore no responsibility for his son’s cowardice, I felt rooted to the ground, paralyzed by the weight of his son's betrayal and heartbreak.

I stood frozen in place, an immovable weight enveloping my body, while my mind drifted in a thick haze. Slowly, the blend of anxious voices that filled the room began to fade into a distant murmur, and the numbness that gripped my mind crept into my other senses, dulling my perception of the world around me. 

“Excuse me for my late arrival!” A voice broke through the fog, sharp and clear. “As soon as I learned of the unfortunate events here, I rushed over. Ahjussi, please try to calm yourself. I know this won’t change anything, but your health is paramount.” 

I lifted my gaze, focusing through the mental fog, and saw the son of one of the oldest, wealthiest families in our village. With quiet authority, he helped my father into a nearby chair, a gentle but firm touch as he guided him. Then, he turned to the other man in the room, his expression a mixture of concern and determination. 

“Ahjussi Choi, have you found Dae-hyun? Do any of his friends have any idea where he might be?” Ahjussi Choi bowed slightly in deference before answering, his voice trembling with barely concealed frustration. 

“Kim-nim, we have searched everywhere, but my cowardly son is nowhere to be found. I have no idea where he is.” His steps toward my father were cautious, each one laced with uncertainty as the weight of the situation pressed heavily upon us all.

“Kyung-jae, you don’t have to worry,” he said, his tone steady but warm. “Y/N is like a daughter to me, and I promise to protect her at all costs. She will be well taken care of.” His gaze drifted around the room, finally landing on me, intense and unwavering. 

"Don't you dare, Choi! You have no right..." My father's voice trembled with emotion, cracking under the weight of his words, before he succumbed to a violent coughing fit. Kim Taehyung quickly moved to his side, offering a glass of water, while my father slumped back in his seat, visibly drained. I rushed over, my heart racing. 

“Appa!” I knelt beside him, my hands shaking slightly as I took the glass from Kim-nim's caring grasp. I carefully lifted it to my father's lips, urging him to drink.

He took slow, deliberate sips, each one seemingly a small victory against the fatigue that weighed him down. As he set the glass aside, his eyes filled with sorrow. 

“My daughter, what will become of your future? I have failed you as a father... Your Appa has failed you.” He grasped my hands in his rough, calloused ones, tears spilling down his weathered cheeks. 

“Appa, please don’t cry. You are the best father in the entire world. We will face this together, and I promise you, everything will be fine.” Just then, a mocking laugh sliced through the tension in the room. 

The ominous figure of my step-aunt entered, her presence filling the space with a chilling tension, and I could feel the dread creeping back into my heart.

“Kyung-jae, just look at the mess that arises when you grant your daughter such unrestrained freedom.” The woman spat, her voice thick with disdain. “She has utterly destroyed our family name, and soon, the entire village will be laughing behind our backs.” 

With deliberate steps, she approached us, supported by her gnarled walking stick, each creak of the wood echoing the weight of her words. 

“We still have an opportunity to remedy this situation. Han Jun-su is eager to marry your daughter. This could be the perfect chance to rid ourselves of this scandal.” 

She insisted, her words slick with the promise of resolution, but tinged with ulterior motives. My mother’s breath caught in her throat, and for the first time during this entire ordeal, her voice broke through the tension. 

“Han Jun-su is older than my husband, your own brother! How can you even suggest such a thing? My daughter will not become the prey of that predator!”

Her voice quaked with the fierce protectiveness of a mother, fueled by righteous anger. Appa was caught in a whirlwind of disbelief.

His eyes widened in shock as he absorbed the repugnant suggestion from the woman before him, his heart racing as he prepared to unleash his pent-up outrage. 

But before he could react, Kim Taehyung's voice cut through the air from the right, a calm yet steely warning. 

“Ajumma, while this may be a private matter for your family, I advise you to carefully choose your words in my presence.” I glanced at him; his eyes were narrowed, a storm brewing within them, yet he maintained his composure as he turned back to my father, standing resolutely against the confrontation.

“Ahjussi, if you don’t mind, I would like to marry your daughter.” His words hung in the air like a heavy fog, and as I processed them, my wide eyes scanned his expression, searching for any flicker of emotion, but found none. 

He shifted his gaze toward me and slowly bent down to my level, as I remained crouched on the floor, feeling the weight of the world pressing down on my shoulders.

“Y/N?” He said, his voice steady but tinged with a gravity that made my heart ache. 

“I know this isn’t the future you imagined. But if you agree, your family will remain safe. This world is cruel, and justice rarely favors the innocent. Society is quick to point fingers, especially at those who don’t deserve it. I won’t pretend to approve of how things have unfolded, but change is slow  and often comes at a price. In the end, the choice is yours. Just know that I will respect whatever decision you make.”

As I stood up, my mind felt like a foggy landscape devoid of clarity, while my heart sank under the immense burden of the moment.

I cast a glance at my mother, her face twisted in worry, and my younger sister, who looked lost and frightened. In that instant, a painful realization settled within me; I knew what my answer would be. 

I turned back to my father. “Y/N, your appa will take care of everything. You don’t have to agree to this.” He urged, his eyes filled with an unwavering determination to protect me.

I attempted to muster a reassuring smile, but it faltered at the edges as tears threatened to spill from my eyes, reflecting my inner turmoil. 

“I know, Appa. I know.” With a heavy heart, I took a deep breath and walked towards Kim Taehyung, each step feeling both burdensome and inevitable. Standing before him, I drew on every ounce of courage I had left. “Kim-nim, I agree to marry you.”

***

The marriage rituals unfolded in a thick haze, a surreal blur where my body moved through the traditions, but my mind drifted far beyond the moment. Kim-nim, no, he was my husband now, insisted that I call him Taehyung from this day forward, a name that felt both foreign and yet strangely intimate.

Following the simplicity of our vows, a grand carriage awaited us, its polished wood gleaming under the soft, warm sunlight.

One of his servants approached, lifting my trunk with practiced ease and loading it into the carriage, a quiet reminder of the life I was leaving behind. 

As I prepared to depart, my heart ached at the sight of my mother and sister enveloping me in tight, tearful hugs, their love wrapping around me like a warm blanket. My father stood at the carriage door, his expression a mixture of pride and sorrow. 

When the moment came to leave, I turned toward my father, wrapping my arms around him tightly as silent tears spilled down my cheeks. “Don’t cry, my daughter.” He murmured, his voice thick with emotion. 

“If you don’t stop now, your old man will surely start crying too, and I’d prefer the village to remember me as the strong man I am.”

His attempt to lighten the mood brought a chuckle from my lips, momentarily brightening the heaviness that filled the air as I reluctantly let him go. 

Taehyung-ssi stepped forward, taking my hand gently but firmly. He turned to my father, his gaze steady and sincere.

“Ahjussi, Y/N is now my wife. I promise to provide her with everything she needs. She will want for nothing, and I assure you, I will never let her go.” 

There was a weight to his words that startled me; my eyes widened in surprise, searching for any trace of insincerity, any sign that this moment was not as it seemed.

Yet, everything around us appeared perfectly ordinary, as if the world itself conspired to conceal the brewing storm of emotions within me.

He gently turned me around, guiding me inside, and I felt an overwhelming heaviness settle in my body, exhaustion gripping me like a thick blanket. Taehyung-ssi bid farewell to my family, his voice calm and reassuring, his demeanor radiating warmth. 

An uncomfortable silence hung in the air as he entered the confines of the looming carriage, his presence a steadying force. As we stood before the monumental doors of his grand home, I could feel my heart racing with both apprehension and curiosity. 

When the doors swung open, Taehyung's mother emerged like a vision of grace, her aura commanding immediate respect. Taehyung stepped slightly in front of me, almost as if to shield me from the intensity of her gaze. 

“Taehyung, welcome back.” She said, her voice resonating with a blend of warmth and a touch of formality. “I would have been ecstatic to witness my son’s wedding in person, but even so, my son is now wed. Now, step aside and let me see my daughter-in-law.” 

With a gentle push, she nudged him to the side, a gesture steeped in both authority and affection. I lowered my gaze, feeling the weight of her expectation as she gracefully approached me. 

“She is beautiful.” She remarked, her eyes assessing me with a mixture of scrutiny and appreciation. “But she must learn our ways.” Her voice softened slightly as she asked.

“Your name is Y/N?” I nodded, my cheeks warming under her scrutiny, unable to meet her understanding gaze.

With a tender yet firm grasp, she lifted my chin, compelling me to look up. When our eyes finally met, I was struck by the depth of emotion swirling in her expression—pride danced alongside a flicker of sadness, a poignant reminder of the complexities of family and tradition.

For a fleeting moment, I thought she might say something further, but instead, she abruptly released her grip and turned her attention back to her son. 

“As your wife, she has certain duties to fulfill. She is not merely the daughter of a humble craftsman; she also carries the weight of being a daughter-in-law of the esteemed Kim family. I will arrange for a few handmaids to assist her; they will ensure she learns our family's traditions and customs properly.” 

With that, she took her leave, and we all bowed deeply in respect. A maid, graceful and efficient, ushered me inside. After navigating through a series of hallways adorned with traditional artwork, she finally led me to a room. 

With that, she took her leave, and we all bowed deeply in respect. A maid, graceful and efficient, ushered me inside. After navigating through a series of hallways adorned with traditional artwork, she finally led me to a room. 

“Y/N-ssi, this is Na-euri's room, and from today onward, it will be yours as well. The young master will join you later. Please take some time to rest, and I shall return shortly with a new handbook for you.” 

Stepping inside, my senses taking in the surroundings; the room was expansive, nearly the size of my modest home. Expansive windows filtered soft sunlight, illuminating elegantly carved furniture and intricate tapestries that adorned the walls.

The handmaid closed the door behind her, leaving me in this unfamiliar space, engulfed in silence and my swirling thoughts.

***

The new hanbok draped elegantly over my frame, adorned in soft pastel hues that seemed to mirror the gentle glow of the moonlight filtering through the window.

The room felt intimate, with only the silvery glow of the moonlight streaming through the sheer curtains, casting gentle shadows that danced across the walls. 

On any other occasion, I might have felt a flutter of excitement for the evening ahead, but tonight was different. A deep sadness settled in my chest, mingling with a gnawing sense of fear. 

I found myself grappling with the unsettling reality that I barely knew my husband, Taehyung, and was uncertain of his expectations for our night together.

Silence had enveloped us since the ceremony, his lack of words amplifying the rhythm of my pounding heart. I hoped he might sense my trepidation and find a way to comfort me.

The echo of footsteps approached from outside, each sound intensifying my anxiety. My heart raced, and a tremor coursed through my hands as the door creaked open. Taehyung stepped into the dim light, his presence commanding yet enigmatic. 

He moved with an effortless grace, shedding his tailored jacket and placing it carefully on the nearby chair. Dressed in a crisp three-piece suit that exuded elegance and sophistication, an unmistakable sign of his noble status, I couldn't help but feel a pang of inadequacy. 

Through my experiences as a seamstress alongside my mother, I had become familiar with the social hierarchies that existed among the wealthy. I often heard upper-class women gossiping about the latest fashions that only the rich could afford.

As Taehyung approached the bed, my grip on the soft fabric of my hanbok tightened, anxiety coursing through me. He sat down beside me, the mattress shifting slightly under his weight.

His long fingers, both strong and elegant, enveloped my hand with a gentle caress, sending a shiver up my spine. 

Taehyung's long, elegant fingers enveloped my hand with a surprising warmth, a stark contrast to the chill that gripped my heart.

His deep, resonant voice broke the silence, flowing over me like a soothing balm as he began to speak and I felt a mixture of anticipation and trepidation as I awaited his words.

“Y/N, you don’t need to feel so fearful.” He reassured gently, his voice wrapped in warmth. “You are my wife now, and I promise to do everything in my power to ensure you are well cared for.” I bit my lip, feeling my heart thud against my chest like a drum echoing in the silence.

“Don’t worry, I won’t push you to do anything until you’re ready. It’s been a long day for you; you should rest. Eomeoni may seem strict, but I assure you, she has a soft heart and is a wonderfully caring mother.”

His thumb brushed against my chin, tenderly coaxing my lip free from its anxious grasp. “Oh, that poor lip,” he murmured softly.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself. What happened wasn’t your fault. The only person who should feel remorse is Dae-hyun.” An angry tear slid down my cheek unbidden.

“Taehyung-ssi, please, do not mention his name in my presence again. He means nothing to me now.”

At that moment, I took his hand in mine, feeling the warmth of his skin against my smaller palm.

“I promise, Taehyung-ssi, that I will do my best to make this marriage work. I owe you so much; you saved me from the harsh judgment of others and from the cruelty of that vile man, Han Jun-su. Thank you, truly. Words cannot fully express my gratitude.”

Emotion bubbled within me, and tears blurred my vision, but Taehyung simply chuckled softly, pulling me into a warm embrace.

“You don’t have to worry about anything, Y/N!” He whispered, resting his chin atop my head. “And for the sake of our bond, please call me simply Taehyung. There shouldn’t be any formalities between a husband and wife.”

As I nestled against him, a smile broke through my tears, and I nodded, feeling an ember of hope spark within me for the first time in a long while.

***

Two months had passed in what felt like a serene blink of an eye, and in that time, Taehyung had morphed into the epitome of a devoted husband, thoughtful, gentle, and always respectful.

He treated me with unwavering respect, never making me feel uncomfortable in any way. Each day, I found myself contemplating how to embrace our marriage to its fullest potential.

After our midday meal, Taehyung would take his father, whom I affectionately called Abeonim, for a leisurely stroll through the expansive garden that lay just beyond the back of the house.

The garden was a picturesque retreat, where vibrant blooms flourished amidst meticulously trimmed hedges, each pathway inviting exploration.

A few years back, Father-in-law had fallen ill, suffering a stroke that left him paralyzed. This unfortunate event forged a strong bond between them, deepening Taehyung's protective instincts. Abeonim was never without company, either Eomeonim, my mother-in-law, or a dedicated servant was always close at hand, ensuring he felt supported and cared for.

Today, my gaze drifted out of the window, and I found myself enchanted by the vision of father and son comfortably seated near the lush rose bushes, their colors blooming vibrantly under the warm sun.

Taehyung was gently spoon-feeding Abeonim a creamy rice pudding, his movements tender and attentive. Every few moments, he would pause to wipe any remnants from his father’s mouth, a soft smile lighting up his face.

The sight filled my heart with warmth; his calm and collected demeanor stood in sharp contrast to so many others in the world. I silently prayed to God to preserve this beautiful aspect of his character.

Just then, my name pierced the air, summoning me to attend to my own duties, which were of great importance to Eomeonim.

Suddenly, a furious scream shattered the tranquility around me. 

"YOU FUCKING LOW LIFE! HOW DARE YOU TOUCH ME WITH YOUR FILTHY HANDS!" 

The shriek echoed from the back of the house, where the garden lay. Leaving everything I was attending to in a hurried rush, I dashed toward the source of the chaos, my heart racing with concern.

Eomeonim tried to calm me down, but I could hear Taehyung's angry screams cutting through the air. A part of me felt a chill of apprehension, fearful that he might have been hurt, while another part of me was simply taken aback. I had never witnessed Taehyung in such a state, his fury seemed foreign, like a tempest unleashed.

When I finally made my way to the back of the house, the sight that greeted me was striking: Taehyung stood soaked, rivulets of water cascading down his form, while a servant knelt before him, desperation written across his face, tears streaming down like a broken dam.

“Na-euri, please show mercy! I slipped and lost control of the jug. It wasn’t my intention to disrespect you; please, forgive me!” He sobbed, his hands wringing together in a futile attempt to convey his remorse.

Taehyung’s back was turned to me, and I couldn’t decipher the turmoil churning within him. My heart ached for the poor man, hoping he wouldn’t face a dire punishment for an accident.

“Sorry? Do you even know what day it is? I have a meeting with a high-ranking official, and now I have to waste precious time changing clothes again! You lowlife bastard...” His voice, sharp and unforgiving, cut through the air like a knife.

“Taehyung!” Eomeonim's authoritative voice broke through like a thunderclap. He turned quickly, the anger in his expression faltering as he caught sight of me.

His eyes widened, reflecting a moment of realization and something sinister. “That is no way to speak to someone, and you shouldn’t use such language in front of your Appa and your wife.”

Maybe it was the power of his mother’s admonishment or the fear that must have been evident on my face that quelled the storm within him, although flecks of fury still shimmered in his gaze like embers.

My mouth opened to speak, to mend the tension hanging heavy between us, but no words came forth. As he stepped closer, I instinctively recoiled, a surge of uncertainty rushing through me like icy water. 

Taehyung met my gaze, his jaw clenched tight, an unspoken battle raging behind his eyes. Without uttering another word, he turned sharply and walked away, leaving an indelible silence in his wake, thick with unresolved emotions.

Eomeonim, with her piercing gaze and an air of urgency, instructed the caretaker to escort Abeonim inside, her worry evident as she observed the distress etched on his face.

I turned hesitantly toward our room, caught in a war of emotions. The mere thought of being alone with my husband churned a bitter dread in my stomach, a feeling I couldn't quite shake.

“You should learn to read him better; it will serve you well in the future.” She advised, her voice steady yet laced with a hint of concern. The intensity in her eyes mirrored the same look she had given me on our initial meeting, a blend of wisdom and warning.

“I don’t understand, Eomeonim.” I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.

“Time will teach you, but keep this in mind. My son remembers everything, and forgiveness is not in his nature.” She urged, stepping closer until she was inches away from me.

Taking my hand in hers, her grip was firm yet reassuring, but I could feel the tremor of her worry lingering in the air.

“He has always been fervent about the things he loves. He loves you, and in return, he will offer you the world, but be wary, never provoke his wrath.”

In that moment, my breath caught in my throat, and the rapid beating of my heart reverberated in my ears, drowning out all else. I opened my mouth to voice my questions, to seek more clarity, but the words faltered as fear constricted my thoughts.

Eomeonim's eyes flickered past mine, a glimmer of panic evident in her expression. In an instant, she released my hand and hurried away from the garden, leaving me isolated with my swirling thoughts.

Just then, I glanced back and caught sight of Taehyung. He was leaning casually against the window frame, his posture relaxed yet somehow imposing.

His eyes were fixed on me with an intensity that sent shivers down my spine, and a smirk curled on his lips, one that was unfamiliar, even unsettling. 

Slowly, almost deliberately, he pushed himself off the window and slid it closed, shutting me off from the outside world and plunging me deeper into a silence that felt foreboding.

If you like it, leave comments and reblogs are highly appreciated!!!

Act Two – When the Curtain Bleeds

[irefy]

My Favorite Parts Of Persians

James Romm Translation

As Snapcube’s Eggman (Alfred) once said; “IM BACK IN THE FUCKING BUILDING AGAIN!” The obsession has only grown since reading the Iliad and the Odyssey, which is unfortunate for my free time.

Anyway, Persians is great. Here’s my notes/favorite parts

Persian advisers gather and express grief and worry about the war

Atossa’s ability to connect with her people; they don’t hesitate to ask what is wrong and she doesn’t hesitate to tell them about her prophetic dreams.

Persian optimism. Atossa has a dream where her son tries to get two girls in yokes (representing the Persians and Greeks) and is then thrown from his chariot. After hearing this dream, the Persians assure Atossa that nothing bad could POSSIBLY come of it.

One guess what came of it.

Atossa questioning why her son would want to conquer Athens, and wondering if he had enough troops to do it.

Why is she only wondering this now??????

Not even a page after this it’s revealed that the entire army is dead. So much for nothing bad happening.

“It’s an evil to first announce evils” —The Persian army’s messenger. Who’s gonna tell him?

The messenger then tells them everything, ignoring the other Persian’s cries of despair.

Most relatable character. I too share every little detail, especially when my friends cry in despair at whatever gossip I’ve dug up.

The old advisers decide they are too old for this and should be dead by now (mood).

The phrase “butt the stony ground.”

The messenger then goes on to describe how the Persians were tricked into the world’s worst game of bumper cars (then featuring boats!)

The blending of words with the Persian’s cries of despair. It has a pretty deep emotional impact—you can feel the full weight of the loss and grief they’re experiencing.

The (deserved) shade everyone is throwing Xerxes.

Wait what

Are they summoning a dead guy?????

WTF.

Darius has a tiara. Fuck yea. Tiara supremacy.

(I was a girl in the village doing all right, then I became a princess overnight. Now I gotta figure out how to do it right! So much to learn and see! Up in the castle with my new family, in a school that’s just for royalty. A whole enchanted world is waiting for meeeee!!! I’m so excited to beeeee DARIUS THE FIRST!!!! I’m finding out what being sleep deprived is all about!! DARIUS THE FIRST! Making my way it’s a new Greek tragedy every dayyyyy!!!! Darius… its gonna be my time Darius… to show them all that I’m DARIUS THE FIRRRRRRSSSSST)

Wait they’re summoning this guy just to tell him everything’s been destroyed? Damn. Poor dude.

Darius expresses his despair at the news, and tells his wife to gently reprimand their son for attacking Athens.

Xerxes returns in torn rags.

The people, half accusing, find him before his mother can.

Xerxes, grieving and defeated, takes the accusations without complaint.

The people thaw and they mourn together, forming a procession that follows Xerxes back to his palace.

Wow this one was extremely dark. I mean it is a tragedy based off of real events so yea that’s to be expected. Definitely deserving of its own serious analysis, will likely make another post.