Chapter 49

In the world we live in, we try so hard to show this beautifully painted exterior because it's diluted and can be well received by others. We are all these Barbie and Ken dolls that are extremely beautiful on the outside but very dark and damaged on the inside. We rarely show others what is within or even what is us.

Isn't it ridiculous how hard we try to hide who we are so that others might like us? The dark messy side is also us. The side that pushed you to take revenge on someone who insulted you. The side that makes you extremely possessive when it comes to people we consider closest to us. We only turn to this side when we are driven by rage, anger, jealousy, or resentment.

I guess you are wondering what I mean by all this. Well grab your makeup and pitchforks we are matching at dawn.

I heard the sounds of several people talking in the living room and I knew it was time to wash up. It was a matter of time before one of them came to the bedroom. Although they wouldn't do it for a bad reason, simply because they miss me and want to see me.

They all accepted me in their group. They are all nice and inclusive. The most beautiful and kind people I have met in my life. Contrary to what others may think, this group of guys took friendship extremely seriously. They would do anything for each other.

I took a quick shower, dressed in something comfy, and headed to greet my guests. When I walked into the living room, they stopped talking.

How suspicious!

" Hello," I waved.

I walked around the huge sofa, fist-bumping everyone except Namjoon who pulled me in his arms. Physical touch was his love language something I learned later on in our relationship. He always felt at ease when I was at a touching distance.

With his back plastered on my front, I felt relieved. I couldn't help but feel a soulful look directed towards me. The other members were busy talking but Jungkook was fixated on me. We were yet to talk after the whole incident happened. I was aware he might feel betrayed by me.

I felt terrible when he directed his wide puppy eyes on me. I knew he was hurting and I wanted to do everything I could to make him feel better. Unfortunately, I don't think there's much I could do. Having an unrequited love was the worst. Nevertheless, I related to his situation more than he would have thought.

Before Namjoon acknowledged his feelings for me, I was in a one-sided love. It was awful and draining, I didn't want the same for him. It wouldn't be fair. I wanted him to date, have fun, and live his life to the fullest. Sometimes I forget that Jungkook was my age. In my mind, I was older and I treated him as such.

Something was wrong though. The room was filled with some sort of tension. They were hiding something from me. None of them could keep eye contact when I looked at them except for Jungkook.

" What's wrong guys?" I asked

I was concerned. If something was stressing them out, it must be something big.

" Well...." Jimin began

" Aaammh" Taeyhung interrupted.

" Spit it out!"

Namjoon pulled me even closer.

" Avah, your information has been leaked online" Yoongi announced

What? My information? How did they get my information?

" I'm wondering the same thing," Namjoon said, reading my mind.

" I don't know but the company was informed immediately and they are trying to get the information taken down" he continued

" By the time it's taken down, it will have been seen by the entire world. Can I see what has been posted ?" I asked

Jin handed me an iPad. On the screen was most of my information. From my official name, my country of origin, my ID number, my parent's names, and my home address. At least my workplace was omitted.

" They almost have everything" I whispered

A shiver ran down my back when I imagined everyone knew who I was. Will they start looking for me? Was I safe?

" I'll protect you" Namjoon declared.

I could hear the determination in his voice to protect what was his. I could also hear a tingle of fear in there. He was worried. I wonder if he will be able to keep me and our relationship safe.

" Thank you" I leaned in to hug him.

He wrapped his arms around me transferring heat and reassurance into me. I could feel he would do everything he could to protect me.

" We will protect you as well," said Jin.

" Thank you so much" I chocked

Touched by their sincerity my eyes took the opportunity to cry. Damn it.

" Hey, don't cry," Yoongi said in a soothing tone.

" I'm not crying, my eyes....there's something stuck in my eyes "

They burst out laughing at the obvious lie. Who knew this was what we needed to lighten the mood? Since it was evening, we decided to cook dinner and have drinks together. They sent one of their managers to get us groceries since it wasn't safe for either of us to walk around.

The world was watching us. Since the rumors started they have been at the center of everyone's attention more than usual. Their names were being mentioned while speculating whether they knew me or not. We decided I would not go back to my place.

If I was being honest, Namjoon wouldn't let me go back to my place. He kept me here since the incident and he will continue until we get married or something. I didn't know his plans for the future but I knew we would be together.

Seri knew my passcode in case of an emergency and this is considered an emergency. Namjoon asked me to call her and ask her to pack some clothes for me in light of recent events. Seri knew about us so it wasn't a surprise. She promised to drop them off in the morning while she picked me up for work.

When the groceries arrived, the boys voted for me to be the chef. Again.