The palace was abuzz with preparations for the upcoming state events, but the tension between Taehyung and Jungkook had reached a boiling point. Taehyung could no longer contain his feelings and decided it was time to confront Jungkook about the growing closeness with Jae.

---

One evening, after a particularly tense day, Taehyung stormed into Jungkook's private study, where Jungkook was reviewing state documents. Taehyung's face was flushed with a mixture of anger and frustration.

*"We need to talk,"* Taehyung said, his voice sharp.

Jungkook looked up, surprised by Taehyung's sudden and intense demeanor. He set aside the papers and motioned for Taehyung to take a seat. *"Taehyung, what's wrong?"*

Taehyung paced back and forth, his agitation evident. *"I've seen how close you've been getting with Jae. It's clear that he's trying to win you over, and I can't just sit back and watch this happen."*

Jungkook raised an eyebrow, a hint of a smile playing at his lips. *"And what exactly are you implying?"*

Taehyung stopped pacing and faced Jungkook directly. *"I'm saying that it bothers me. You're letting him get too close. It's as if you're deliberately pushing me aside."*

---

Jungkook leaned back in his chair, a smirk forming on his lips. The sight of Taehyung's jealousy seemed to amuse him. *"Is that so? And how exactly do you feel about this?"*

Taehyung's eyes widened with a mix of surprise and frustration. *"You know how I feel. I don't like seeing you with him, especially when he's clearly trying to manipulate you."*

Jungkook's amusement grew. He enjoyed seeing Taehyung's reaction, sensing the depth of Taehyung's feelings. *"You're quite worked up about this. I didn't realize you cared so much."*

Taehyung's face reddened, and he struggled to maintain his composure. *"It's not just about me. It's about our kingdom, and your decision. If you're considering marrying Jae, then you need to understand how it affects everyone involved."*

Jungkook stood up and walked around his desk, closing the distance between them. He placed a hand on Taehyung's shoulder, his touch surprisingly gentle. *"Taehyung, I appreciate your concern. But this is a complex situation. Jae's proposal is part of a larger strategy, and I have to consider what's best for the kingdom."*

---

Taehyung was taken aback by Jungkook's touch and the calmness in his voice. For a moment, the intensity of the situation seemed to dissipate, leaving Taehyung feeling vulnerable.

*"I just don't want to see you making a decision you might regret,"* Taehyung said quietly, his voice softer now.

Jungkook's gaze softened as he looked into Taehyung's eyes. *"I understand. But you need to trust me to make the right choice. I value your opinion, but there are many factors at play here."*

The moment of vulnerability between them was palpable, and Taehyung could see the sincerity in Jungkook's eyes. Despite his frustration, he felt a surge of conflicting emotions.

*"I just... I care about you,"* Taehyung admitted, his voice trembling slightly. *"And seeing you with Jae... it's hard for me."*

Jungkook's expression shifted from amusement to one of contemplation. *"Taehyung, I never intended to push you away. Jae's actions are part of his strategy, but that doesn't mean I don't value your presence and your feelings."*

-

The confrontation left both men with much to consider. Taehyung's admission of his feelings and Jungkook's reaction had changed the dynamic between them. As Taehyung left the study, his mind was racing with thoughts of Jungkook's response and the underlying emotions that had surfaced during their conversation.

In the quiet of his own chambers, Taehyung reflected on the unexpected turn of events. He had confronted Jungkook out of frustration and jealousy, but the conversation had revealed more than he had anticipated. Jungkook's calm demeanor and the hint of care in his voice had stirred something deep within Taehyung, leaving him to grapple with his own feelings and the future of their relationship.

---

The following days were marked by a subtle shift in the interactions between Taehyung and Jungkook. The confrontation had opened a new channel of communication between them, though the underlying tension remained. Jungkook continued to navigate the political landscape, while Taehyung's feelings of jealousy and concern persisted.

Jennie and Jae, meanwhile, observed the changing dynamics with interest. Their plan to manipulate the situation had taken an unexpected turn, and they were left to reassess their strategy as Taehyung and Jungkook's relationship evolved in unforeseen ways.

---

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