SUNG YEOL : Anything?

SEO IN : (-sniffs-) It was a black van, but there was no number plate. It was blank white.

SUNG YEOL : Alright. How many were they?

SEO IN : I could only see two men.

SUNG YEOL : Okay. Let's head to the police station for now. We will talk the rest on our way.

While the couple raced their way to the police station, the abductors reached their lawless residence.

The long haired, just incase, asked the one in back if he had seized Jae Ra's cellphone.

Upon a negative answer, the seemingly more experienced man, furiously caught on the other's collars.
"No matter how rookie you are, isn't that a common sense to turn off the damn phones!"

"So-so-sorr-y, I-ll, I will do it now." The rookie answered fearfully. His senior released the grip a little harshly. The former then, opened the door on Jae Ra's side and looked for her phone himself. She was unconscious and Jae Hyung remained quiet, holding on her figure firmly.

Without any delay, the captor turned her phone off and pocketed it in his pants. He matched eyes with Jaehyung's scared ones for a moment. The little boy instantly hid his face into Jae Ra's arms, while the long haired ordered the rookie to head them inside.

.

.

They were kept hostage in a murky dilapidated room. The building seemed like it had a history of a blaze and received a zero maintenance henceforth.

What seemed like a long sleep, Jae Ra slowly gained her conscious after a while and looked around the shabby surroundings.

Feeling a certain heaviness around her abdomen, she realized it was Jae hyung upon shifting her sight. For the entire time, the four year old, aghasted to dumb, ploughed on to hold his aunt no matter what. The only person, he felt safe in that horrific situation.

Jae Ra was soon cued to all that had occurred before she lost her consciousness. She didn't waste another second, to embrace Jae hyung with a gesture of security and warmth.

JAE HYUNG : (-looking up at her-) Emo... are you okay now?

Little children always tend to give out their true hearts from the way they look at you. And Jae Ra could easily read Jae Hyung's dread, from the tone of his restraint voice and anxious expressions.

JAE RA : (-nods with a smile-) Of course, I am absolutely fine.

Jae Ra was well versed with the child psyche, that one should never express fear to them, in such a circumstance. And if been told, that it was not a big deal, they feel much more at ease and are less prone to bear a trauma.

The child psychology books she has read for an extra interest in her Tourism course, seemed really informative and helpful then. Thus, she shrouded all her fright and uncertainty in that moment and conversed with him in a very casual tone.

JAE RA : (-cheerfully-) But, is Jae Hyung-ie fine too? Aren't you hurt anywhere?

JAE HYUNG : (-nodding-) Im. I am not hurt.

Untuned with a practical situation, much different than the theorized ones, Jae Ra was unable to dial down his fears.

As if everything out of her fort to manage, a ray of light suddenly flashed inside the room from a small hole in the wall. It presented a ghastly view of the otherwise dull room.
The sight just further scared Jae Hyung as he immediately started to bawl his eyes, burying his head into her embrace.

JAE HYUNG : Emo! It's scary!

JAE RA : Don't look, (-patting his back-) Shh... It's okay. Emo is with you, don't cry.

She couldn't find any way to make it less frightening for him. And amidst that distress, Jae Ra was prompted to her phone.

"Did they take it?" She wondered, but was not surprised. In that process, however, her hands landed on one of the toffees she had been carrying in her pockets.

Jae Ra instantly figured out a lure to distract Jae Hyung from the current tightness.

JAE RA : Okay, if you listen to emo and stop crying, then I will give Jae Hyung-ie something really delicious.

Jae Ra dramatically gasped, looking at the toffee and internally cursed at herself for having gulped almost one fourth a jar of candies.

JAE RA : Ow, there's only one left. Who is going to eat that? Our Jae Hyungie? Or Emo?

Quite amazingly, it worked. Jae Hyung significantly lessened his hawl and released the hug to take part in the set up.

JAE HYUNG : Oh! We halted to buy this then. That's my favorite!

JAE RA : (-gasps again-) Oh, right! It's Jae Hyung's favorite. So, I guess Emo has to pass on it.

He wiped his eyes with his tiny palms and smiled at the familiar wrapper. Jae Ra infectiously smiled back and keenly watched his actions as she forwarded the toffee.

Taking it in his small hands, Jae Hyung unwrapped the cover with a little struggle, before the toffee made to his mouth. The sight was so adorable that Jae Ra couldn't help be in awe, even in that stressful hour. She further tidied his face and brushed his messy hair, watching him savor the taste.

And as she witnessed his little chews with the wrapped sounds-a past incident evoked in her mind. The scene appeared quite familiar with the present. A female in her early 20s, scared and having the same toffees. She was kept hostage in a confined space, which somewhat seemed like an attic.

Jae Ra couldn't, however, identify the figure in her blurred up memories. Her face was indistinct and arms and legs were bruised. Blood stains dried out, hesitating and scrunching away from the mini spiders.

Jae Ra couldn't view further as those recollections were now replaced by a headache. Her eyes were watery at the pain and this time a heartache accompanied too. As if a past wound was fresh open.

Fortunately, the precautionary measures of keeping atleast one dose of medication in all her clothes for emergencies, came to her like a savior. But, she was also heedful of her little company then and acted accordingly.

JAE RA : Now, Emo too must eat something. Let's see what we have.

Jae Hyung slowed down his chews, concentrating more towards what was going to come out from her pockets.

JAE HYUNG : Oh? This looks like a medicine.

JAE RA : Right, this is a medicine. But, it's Emo's favorite one. It always makes me feel better.

Jae Hyung passed on his most endearing smile, as he generously showcased his empathy.

JAE HYUNG : Have it quick!

Jae Ra followed his words and at once plopped it inside her mouth. She gulped it forcefully without water and looked at Jae Hyung with big amusing eyes.

JAE RA : Gone!

Jaehyung smiled cutely and continued to chew on his toffee.

JAE HYUNG : But, how did you come here? Did you ride an airplane too? We had to fly in one, to reach back home.

Gradually as the medications began its work, Jae Ra could focus entirely on Jae Hyung.

JAE RA : Yes, of course. I missed Jae Hyungie so much that I had to get on a plane and quickly fly to the place where he lives.

Jae Hyung giggled and Jae Ra felt more enthusiastic, seeing him getting better with her talk.

JAE HYUNG : But, we met in front of the park earlier. How did you know I would be there?

JAE RA : Emo knows a lot of things. (-smiles-) I also know that we are actually in a game.

JAE HYUNG : (-eyes turn curious-) Game? What game, Emo?

Children are always curious. She learnt a little more about that, that evening.

JAE RA : Christmas is very close now, right? So, Santa harabuji(santa grandpa) wants to test our little Jae hyungie.

JAE HYUNG : Santa harabuji does?

Children also, easily believe in what they see and hear. Jae Ra, not quite familiar with kids, noticed that innocent vulnerability to manipulation, in him.

JAE RA : (-nodding-) He wants to see how brave is our Jae hyung. So, he put us in here. And if you cry or get scared, your marks will be deducted. But, if you don't and be strong until your Appa comes, then...

JAE HYUNG : (-in all seriousness-) Then...?

JAE RA : He will give you a big present.(-showing how big with her hands-) This big!

JAE HYUNG : (-eyes lit up-) Really, Santa harabuji said that?

JAE RA : Yes, he did. (-leans and whispers-) But, it's a secret between me and him. So, don't tell him. (-leans back-) Okay?

JAE HYUNG : Yes! If I finally get to meet him this year, I will not tell him that I already know about his game.

JAE RA : (-smiles-) Okay. So, will you be a brave boy? And shall we complete the mission?

JAE HYUNG : (-nods heavily-) I won't be scared anymore. But... (-hesitantly-) Appa will come soon, right?

Jae Ra's smile instantly dropped, seeing him lose all his energy and regaining his sad face.

JAE RA : Appa will... Emo said, she knows a lot of things, didn't she? So, Appa will surely find us. I promise.

"I hope he does." She prayed in her mind and they gestured a pinky promise with wide smiles.

Meanwhile, the resting Kim Mansion awaited a big shake at the news, as the driver and the babysitter, at last, reached.

Taehyung, thirsty after an evening slumber, was drinking water in the kitchen. He casually wondered if Jae Hyung was home yet. Then figured, it wouldn't have been this quiet if he was.

With the persisting worry, he kept the bottle on the counter table and walked to the hall. Only, to welcome Jae Hyung's care takers come inside with panick and fear plastered all over their countenances.

TH : What happened? Where is Jae hyung?

NANNY : (-trembling words-) I am s-sorry, Sir. I apologize.

What infuriated Taehyung more, was her apologies covering the actual situation when every second mattered.

TH : (-raising voice-) For god's sake, will anyone tell, what's the matter!

They flinched with lowered heads, having no right words to frame the scene correctly. Soon, his parents and Ji Hae came out of their nests, concerned about the matter behind Taehyung's yell.

Mrs. KIM : What happened, Taehyung-ah?

TH : These two need to speak to know that.

DRIVER : Young master has been kidnapped. (-looking down-) I deeply apologize. We couldn't take better care.

Taehyung's mother, stunned at the thunderbolt, lost her balance for a second. Mr. Kim guided her to the couch while Ji hae approached to comfort her.

Taehyung, in his shoes, was scarily contained and had his composure. But, his ire field was so strong that the two inefficient careers didn't dare raise their heads.

TH : (-thick voice-) How did it happen?

DRIVER : We were safely driving home. But, young master wanted me to buy his favorite candies. So, we halted at the shop.

NANNY : (-continues-) My sister called me, so I had to get off the car to receive it. But, I was right outside, still... didn't realize when young master left the car too... (-starts crying-) Probably, the kidnappers took him then.

Taehyung clenched his fist, jaws growing sharp and looked at the driver for his account of excuse.

DRIVER : I-... (-eyes down-) I was inside the shop and didn't see it happen. But, within seconds she alerted me about his disappearance. Thus, we looked around and . . .

TH : (-yells-) And you just let them take him away?!

DRIVER : For young master's safety, I couldn't do anything. They were armed.

TH : Then what are your arms for!

Having nothing but silence from the incompetent driver, Taehyung felt more irk filling him up.

TH : You both are fired. Get out of my sight, right now!

They didn't dare show the slightest hesitation and obediently complied with Taehyung's command.

While Taehyung anxiously looked at his phone to make some necessary calls, Mr.Kim stepped up noticing Taehyung's hand tremors.

Mr.KIM : Taehyung-ah. Calm down for now. We can-

Paying least heed to his father's words, Taehyung was interrupted by a call from a private number.

He quickly received it without a second thought. His intuition was correct, it was the kidnapper.

KIDNAPPER : (-mimicing Taehyung-) Hello, Bangtan Sonyeondan's Mr.V. (-laughs-)

The extent of his anguish and wrath had no bounds at that point. However, he was well aware that he was at a disadvantage then.

TH : What do you want?

KIDNAPPER : Well, I will start with a "thanks", since you put your numbers with your son. It was convenient for us to reach you.

He clenched on the phone and tried to stay calm as the line continued.

KIDNAPPER : Isn't it fascinating how this little human is worth such big money. Grandpa, a reputed business man. Father, a world famous idol. He is a total nob.

Indignation was scrapping off his patience at the kidnapper's offensive and provocative words.

KIDNAPPER : But, unfortunate that the money bank was freely available. Oh, is it a fortune for me though? (-light chuckle-) You should have kept him indoors, listening to you sing lullabies to him. Mr.Idol Dad.

TH : Name your ransom.

KIDNAPPER : Ay, you are such a mundane. If you speak this straightforward, I don't get the feeling to tease you.

Taehyung clenched his teeth, holding himself from doing anything detrimental to Jaehyung.

KIDNAPPER : (-sighs-) Bring Ten million dollars in the address I send you. But, come alone and kindly do not invite the police. No doubt we will get arrested, but before that happens, your son will get to the heaven.

Prior to Taehyung's patience reaching the bottom line and leading to an outburt, Jae Hyung's muffled cry, "Emo! It's scary," faintly traveled the line.

He was once again reminded, that he was at a disadvantage then and couldn't afford messing things with his outrage.

TH : I am coming. I will bring you all the money you had asked. Just don't hurt him.

"That darn kid! I will shut him up," one of them spoke his annoyance, raising Taehyung's heartbeat even more.

KIDNAPPER : (-talking to that guy-) Leave him be. His cry was at the perfect timing, the father is ready to pay.

"Ye," his subordinate responded respectfully and stayed put on his position.

KIDNAPPER : Taehyung-ssi. Heard that? We'll be good as long as you are. Besides, you got us a chic babysitter too. We should reflect some gratitude on that as well.

"Babysit..." Taehyung's wonderment trailed off as he could instantly grasp, who it was with Jae Hyung. The only person, Jae Hyung knew to address as 'Emo' was Jae Ra, he recalled. And this very prompt only added to his fret.

TH : Just like you had asked. I wouldn't inform the police and bring the sum as soon as possible.

"Great, you are smart. I am waiting. But, don't be late," warned the kidnapper, one last time before ending the call.

Everyone silently looked at Taehyung, in a hope to get an answer to their endless questions. But, he only leaned to his mother as he attended her with an assured smile.

TH : Don't worry, I won't return without Jae Hyung. So, please wait for us.

Mrs.KIM : (-in tears-) Okay, I believe in you. But, be careful.

Taehyung nodded her as genuinely as he could and paced towards his room, upstairs.

Almost hurling a big suitcase on his bed, he straight went for his locker and piled up all the amount he had stored in there.

Packing them inside the case in a rush, he was wheeling it out of his room when he briefly halted near the door.

Taehyung was loose on his feet for a moment, because of the vicious concoction of exceeding fear, anxiety and anguish.

He gathered himself forcefully, having no time to spare and caught up with his fast pace once again, as he flew downstairs.

Meanwhile, in the hall Mr.Kim talked to his secretary to find out all the information about the person Taehyung received a call from.

Just as he reached the final step, Taehyung received the address and the time he has to be present. Without giving any more thoughts, he advanced towards the hall.

However, Mr.Kim stopped him mid-way by his arm.

Mr.KIM : I will figure out what to do. Let me take care of it. You stay home. It could be dangerous.

Taehyung harshly released his arm from his father's grip and spoke in a restrained tone. Heart still harbored a good amount of resent towards him.

TH : I don't care. It's my family. I will do what is required. Please, stay out of my matters. That will be the best you can do.

Mr.KIM : This is not a time to act rashly, Taehyung-ah. Don't be ridiculous. You cannot fight them all alone. And that too bare handed.

Taehyung ran his view over all the eyes gathered in the hall and the ones, standing at a distance. He was least interested in Mr.Kim's words that he was already well aware about.

TH : If anyone in this house, contacts the police and puts Jae Hyung in a further threat. It's my sincere warning, it will be your last day.

He no longer waited for a comeback from his father and flounced out of the mansion in a hurry.

Without any words, he placed the suitcase in the back seat of his car. His driver, totally clueless about the situation, received a call from Mr.Kim. To follow Taehyung in all cost.

Nevertheless, the driver on his way to fulfill his duty was stopped by Taehyung.

TH : My father might be rich. But, I have plenty of my own too. If I want, I can also do whatever it takes to make you fear me more than him. So, don't even think of following me.

DRIVER : (-bows-) I will follow your order, Sir. (-respectfully hands him the keys-) Drive safe.

Taehyung roared off to his bank to withdraw the rest of the amount. After a good quarter of an hour, he was on the road to the place he was called to. Accelerating with a nervous heart, he dialed his acquaintance to ask a favor of him.

"Yah! That is too dangerous, I can't allow yo-" Taehyung cut off the person on the line as he continued his desperate persuasion.

TH : Hyung. My four year old boy is in a much bigger threat right now. He must be terrified and waiting for his Appa to go to his rescue as soon as possible.

With the words pronounced loud, Taehyung accelerated a little more in the thought of Jae Hyung.

TH : I know that this is dangerous. And that is the reason, I am asking of you. Please, hyung. Do as I say.

And in no time, with the slowly setting sun, Taehyung reached the destination a little off the deadline. Regardless, he remained optimistic and hoped JaeRa and Jaehyung were both fine.

The moment Taehyung discerned the probable members of the captor gang, he was fumed up with rage.

His grip on the suitcase handle tightened, as he advanced towards them with a mask of composure.

The long haired guy from earlier and the rookie, ran a quick scan of any weapons on his body, and dumped his phone back inside his car. Once they had bared him off of any kind of gadgets, they escorted Taehyung to a distance of 10 minutes till the spooky blazen building-to their boss.

BOSS : Hmm... are you this punctual for your stage too?

TH : It was not a small amount. It took me a while to sum it all.

The boss then verified with his right hand man, if the van was ready for them to flee with the money. Just as he received a positive response, the head of the three minions, ordered the one of two, standing behind Taehyung. To check the suitcase.

But, Taehyung placed his hand atop of it, before the order could be obeyed.

TH : Where's my son?

BOSS : (-chuckles-) Well, you were late. So, I killed him.

____________

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Stay Tuned!