For the past two weeks, everything had been meticulously planned.

The boys handled all the security arrangements—tracking routes, securing contacts, setting up surveillance, and ensuring that no threats would follow them to India. Meanwhile, YN had been just as busy, but in an entirely different way. She had spent days planning her itinerary, deciding where she wanted to go, what she wanted to wear, and which markets and places she absolutely had to visit.

She had been so excited that, for two full weeks, she had worn nothing but traditional Indian outfits—elegant sarees, graceful salwar suits, and beautifully embroidered anarkalis. Even now, as she stood at the entrance of their home, ready to leave, she was draped in a stunning teal blue saree, her bangles softly jingling with every movement.

Yoongi, who was fastening his watch while glancing at her from time to time, couldn't help but smirk.

"You do realize we're just going to the airport, right? Not a royal gathering?"

She turned to him with a playful glare. "And? I'm in full Desi mode now. I'm going to India, so I should look the part!"

The boys chuckled at her enthusiasm. Taehyung nudged Jimin and whispered, "At this rate, she might never wear western clothes again."

Jimin grinned. "I wouldn't mind. She looks great like this."

Yoongi rolled his eyes at them but secretly agreed. She did look beautiful. But then again, when did she not?

Their journey to the airport was smooth, and as expected, they didn't take a commercial flight. Instead, they boarded their private jet, a sleek aircraft with luxurious interiors—black leather seats, a minibar, and enough space for them to relax comfortably.

YN was practically bouncing with excitement as she settled into her seat next to Yoongi. "I still can't believe we're actually going!"

Jin chuckled. "We had no choice. Once you set your mind on something, there's no stopping you."

She grinned. "Exactly!"

The flight attendants served them drinks, and the conversation flowed easily. The boys talked about work, security plans, and general things, while YN kept chatting about the different places she wanted to visit—temples, beaches, street markets, and iconic landmarks.

Yoongi leaned back in his seat, watching her animated expressions with quiet amusement.

After several hours of flying, they finally landed in Mumbai, India.

The moment they stepped off the plane, the warm air and distinct scent of the city filled the atmosphere. The sounds of distant traffic, the smell of street food, and the energy of the city were unmistakable.

YN inhaled deeply. "Ahh! It feels so different already!"

Jungkook stretched his arms. "Well, we're finally here."

Instead of heading into the heart of Mumbai, they drove toward the outskirts of the city. The roads became quieter, the air fresher, and soon, they were surrounded by greenery.

After about an hour, their convoy of black SUVs finally arrived at their destination—a massive private farmhouse, surrounded by thick forestland, secluded from the chaos of the city.

As they pulled up to the gates, YN looked out the window and blinked in surprise. "Wait... this is where we're staying?"

Yoongi nodded. "Yeah. I bought this place a while back. Thought it would be useful someday."

The estate was breathtaking—a grand, modern house nestled in nature, with large windows that opened to vast landscapes, a luxurious pool, and a security perimeter strong enough to keep anyone out.

As they got out of the cars, YN crossed her arms, looking at Yoongi with narrowed eyes. "You never mentioned we'd be staying so far from the city."

Yoongi raised a brow. "Is that a problem?"

She huffed. "If we're this far out, how am I supposed to enjoy the city life? The busy streets, the night markets, the street food—"

Yoongi smirked, stepping closer and tilting his head. "Sweetheart, you just focus on what you want to do. Where you want to go. Everything else? That's on me."

She looked up at him, pouting slightly. "Promise?"

His gaze softened, and he lifted a hand to tuck a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Promise."

Jin groaned. "Alright, lovebirds. Enough flirting. Let's get inside."

YN giggled, and with that, they all stepped into their new home in India, ready for the adventure ahead.

The golden hues of the setting sun painted the sky as the soft evening breeze swept through the open windows of the penthouse. After a long, exhausting journey, everyone had spent most of the day resting and recharging their energy for the adventures ahead. But now, as the evening settled in, a different kind of energy filled the air—the sound of laughter and playful banter echoing from the kitchen.

"Jin, stop acting like a master chef! This is just a simple curry!" YN laughed, playfully nudging him with her elbow as she stirred the simmering pot on the stove.

Jin gasped dramatically, placing a hand on his chest. "Excuse me? Do you not realize that I, Kim Seokjin, am an artist in the kitchen?"

"More like an artist in making a mess," Jungkook chimed in from the counter, where he was busy chopping vegetables—although most of them seemed to be landing in his mouth rather than in the bowl.

"Yah!" Jin flicked a little flour at him, making Jungkook scrunch his nose.

YN giggled, shaking her head at their antics. Cooking with them was never a quiet affair. Jin always took charge as if he was the head chef of a five-star restaurant, while Jungkook acted as the mischievous assistant who conveniently forgot his responsibilities every five minutes. And her? She was the middle ground—the one who actually tried to follow the recipe while managing the chaos around her.

"You know, if you keep eating the ingredients, Jungkook, there won't be anything left to cook," YN scolded lightly, pointing the wooden spoon at him.

Jungkook gave her his best puppy-eyed look. "But noona, I'm just making sure they're fresh! Quality control, you know?"

"Uh-huh, and I suppose eating half the paneer was also part of quality control?" She crossed her arms.

"Obviously." He grinned, popping another piece into his mouth before dodging the towel Jin threw at him.

Jin let out an exaggerated sigh. "Honestly, I don't know why I even bother cooking with you two. YN is the only responsible one here."

YN smirked. "And yet, you wouldn't survive without us."

Jin grumbled something under his breath, but the small smile playing on his lips gave him away.

Finally, after much chaos and bickering, dinner was ready. The rich aroma of spices filled the air, making their stomachs growl in anticipation.

"Alright, let's call the others," YN announced, wiping her hands on her apron.

Jungkook immediately perked up. "Finally, food!"

Jin rolled his eyes. "You've been eating the whole time."

"And yet, I am still hungry," Jungkook replied with a cheeky grin before rushing out of the kitchen to summon the rest of the group.

After dinner, the group gathered in the spacious living room, sinking into the plush sofas with full bellies and content smiles.

"So," Taehyung stretched his arms over his head, "what movie are we watching?"

YN beamed. "Since I'm in full desi mode, it has to be a Bollywood movie!"

The boys collectively groaned.

"Come on, YN!" Jimin whined. "You know we suck at Hindi!"

"There will be subtitles," she reasoned. "Plus, it's about time you all learn something more than 'Namaste' and 'Shukriya'."

Yoongi, who had been quiet, smirked. "She has a point."

Jungkook nudged Jimin. "Bro, don't complain. We'll get to watch all those dramatic fight scenes and dancing sequences."

Jin sighed, defeated. "Fine. What movie are we watching?"

YN scrolled through the options and finally selected Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.

"Ah, this one is a classic," she said excitedly. "It's about friendships, travel, and finding oneself. Perfect for our trip!"

Namjoon raised a brow. "As long as it's not three hours of straight crying, I'm good."

"That depends on how emotional you are," YN teased, clicking play.

As the movie played, they fell into a comfortable silence, occasionally breaking into laughter at the exaggerated Bollywood dialogues or teasing each other about which character they resembled the most.

Meanwhile, between scenes, they casually discussed their travel plans.

"Alright," Namjoon said, pulling out his phone, "so we have a rough itinerary, but let's finalize it. What are we doing first?"

"I want to go shopping!" YN declared immediately.

The boys chuckled.

"Of course, you do," Yoongi murmured, amused.

"Excuse me, I have been planning this for weeks," YN said, crossing her arms. "Shopping in India is a must!"

"We'll split up," Hoseok suggested. "Some of us can explore the city while YN shops. Then, we'll meet up for lunch."

"Sounds good," Taehyung nodded. "And after that, maybe sightseeing? A fort, maybe?"

"Yes!" YN clapped her hands. "There's so much history here; we have to see at least one historical site."

Yoongi, ever the planner, added, "And security-wise, we'll have to be careful. We'll take the usual precautions."

"Obviously," Namjoon agreed. "We don't take chances, especially not here."

YN noticed how Yoongi's expression darkened slightly as he said that, but she chose not to comment. He had always been protective of her, and she knew that part of him never truly relaxed, even in peaceful moments like this.

As the movie continued, YN leaned into Yoongi's side, resting her head on his shoulder. He didn't say anything, but his arm naturally draped around her, pulling her close.

For now, everything felt safe. Warm. Happy.

The movie had ended long ago, and the living room was now filled with the quiet murmurs of the boys as they stretched and yawned, exhaustion weighing heavily on them. The long journey, the excitement, and the cozy atmosphere had left everyone feeling drowsy, but no one was as sleepy as YN.

Curled up on the couch beside Yoongi, she had barely made it through the second half of the film before her eyelids began fluttering shut. Her head rested lightly on his shoulder, the soft rhythm of her breathing giving away that she had long surrendered to sleep. A small smile tugged at Yoongi's lips as he glanced down at her.

"I think someone had a little too much excitement today," Jin chuckled, nudging Jungkook, who grinned in response.

"No kidding," Taehyung added, stretching his arms. "She was so excited about this trip, I'm surprised she even sat still for the movie."

Yoongi shook his head with a soft chuckle. Without another word, he slipped his arms beneath YN, lifting her effortlessly. She stirred for a moment but nestled against his chest instinctively, seeking warmth. The others exchanged knowing looks but said nothing, letting Yoongi do what he always did—take care of her.

"I'll take her to bed," Yoongi muttered before disappearing down the hallway.

The bedroom was dimly lit by the moonlight streaming in through the windows, casting a silvery glow over the room. Yoongi carefully laid YN down on the bed, tucking her in before brushing a strand of hair away from her face. She mumbled something incoherent in her sleep, her fingers twitching slightly as if reaching for him.

His heart softened.

"Sleep well, baby," he whispered before placing a gentle kiss on her forehead.

Just as he was about to lay down beside her, his phone buzzed.

At first, he ignored it.

But then it buzzed again.

And again.

With a sigh, Yoongi reached for his phone, unlocking it as he made his way to the balcony. The cool night breeze brushed against his skin as he leaned against the railing, glancing at the screen.

First Message (Unknown Number): "It's good having fun with family, especially with your wife. Watching a nice movie at night and eating a home-cooked meal—what a peaceful life, right?"

Second Message (Unknown Number): "Don't you think you should invite us over for dinner too? We're quite curious... How does your wife's cooking taste?"

Third Message (Final Threat - Unknown Number): "You kept her hidden for four years. But now she's in my city. Let's see how long you can protect her. The game has begun, Yoongi. And trust me, I don't lose."

Yoongi's fingers clenched around the device, his knuckles turning white. For four years, he had made sure YN remained untouched by his world—his business, his enemies, his darkness. He had built walls so high that no one dared to even think of using her against him.

Yet someone had dared.

Someone had crossed a line.

His mind raced as he read the messages again, his heartbeat steady, but the fire in his chest burning hotter.

This wasn't just a warning.

This was a challenge.

A test to see how far they could push him.

He inhaled deeply, forcing himself to stay calm. He couldn't afford to lose control. Not now. Not when she was here.

His dark eyes flickered towards the bedroom where YN lay peacefully, unaware of the storm that had just begun brewing around her.

Over my dead body.

He took one last glance at her before turning on his heels, his steps silent as he left the room.

The clock ticked past midnight, but there was no peace in the air. The penthouse, which had been filled with laughter and warmth just hours ago, now felt suffocating with the weight of the messages Yoongi had received. The words from the unknown sender still burned in his mind.

His grip tightened around his phone as he exhaled sharply, his jaw clenched. He knew exactly what this was. It wasn't just a message—it was a declaration of war.

After one last glance at YN, who was fast asleep, unaware of the storm brewing around her, he left the room and made his way toward the meeting area. The others were already waiting.

The moment he stepped in, the air crackled with tension.

Namjoon was standing with his arms crossed, his expression unreadable, but the sharpness in his eyes told Yoongi everything. Jin was sitting at the edge of the couch, his fingers tapping impatiently against his knee. Taehyung leaned against the window, his head slightly bowed as if trying to contain his frustration.

Hoseok, Jimin, and Jungkook were quieter, but their tense postures said enough.

As soon as Yoongi closed the door behind him, Namjoon spoke first, his voice low and controlled.

"I told you not to come here."

His words were clipped, carrying the weight of suppressed anger. Yoongi didn't respond, just stared back at him, his expression unreadable.

"We warned you," Jin added, his voice harsher. "We told you it wasn't safe. We told you to stay in Korea. But you didn't listen, did you?"

Yoongi's fingers curled into fists at his sides. He knew this was coming. He had expected it.

"This was supposed to be a vacation," Taehyung muttered, finally lifting his head. "A few weeks of peace. And now we're dealing with this."

Yoongi's voice was calm, but it carried the edge of something dangerous. "You think I don't know that? You think I wanted this?" He scoffed, shaking his head. "I brought her here because I thought it was safe. I made sure it was safe."

Namjoon let out a sharp breath, running a hand through his hair. "Safe?" He laughed bitterly. "Yoongi, they were watching us. Watching her. They knew exactly what we were doing tonight. That's not just a random threat. That's a message. They want you to know they're close."

Yoongi remained silent. His thoughts were a storm, his mind racing through all the possible threats, all the enemies he had made over the years. But one thing was clear—this wasn't just about him anymore. They were coming for her.

Jin's voice softened, but the frustration was still there. "We get it. You kept her away from this life for four years. You protected her. But now she's in the middle of it. Whether you like it or not."

Hoseok, who had been quiet until now, finally spoke. "What's the plan?"

Yoongi exhaled, pinching the bridge of his nose before looking at them. "We find out who sent the message. We take them out before they get the chance to come near her."

Jungkook frowned. "And what about YN? She's not stupid, hyung. She'll know something's wrong."

Silence fell over the room. They all knew it was true. YN wasn't naive. She paid attention. She noticed the little things. The moment she sensed something was off, she would start asking questions.

"We can't let her know." Yoongi's voice was firm. "Not yet."

Jimin shook his head. "You're underestimating her. If you think she won't realize what's going on, you're wrong."

Yoongi's jaw tightened. He knew that. He knew keeping this from her wouldn't be easy. But the alternative—putting her in the middle of a war—was worse.

"Then what do you suggest?" he challenged, his eyes locking with Jimin's.

Jimin sighed. "We keep her away from anything suspicious, at least for now. We act normal. We do what we planned—sightseeing, dinners, whatever. But behind the scenes, we track whoever the hell sent those messages and we end this."

There was a beat of silence before Namjoon nodded. "Agreed. But the second this gets worse, she needs to know."

Yoongi's lips pressed into a thin line, but he nodded. He didn't like it. He hated the idea of keeping her in the dark. But this was the only way.

Jin leaned forward. "We need extra security. More eyes on her. She can't go anywhere alone."

Hoseok turned to Yoongi. "And you? What's your move?"

Yoongi's eyes darkened. "I'm going to send a message back."

Taehyung raised an eyebrow. "What kind of message?"

Yoongi smirked, but it wasn't the playful kind. It was the kind that sent chills down spines. "The kind that makes them regret ever sending one in the first place."

The sun filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow over the room. The sound of the city waking up was faint in the background, but inside the penthouse, it was as if nothing had happened the night before.

Yoongi stirred awake, his body still tense from the meeting, but as soon as his eyes landed on YN, who was curled up beside him, a soft sigh left his lips. She was still asleep, her face peaceful, unaware of the storm raging around her. He gently brushed a strand of hair from her face.

He had to protect her. No matter what.

A knock on the door pulled him out of his thoughts.

"Hyung, we're getting breakfast ready," Jungkook's voice came from outside.

Yoongi looked down at YN as she stirred awake, blinking up at him sleepily. "Morning," she murmured.

He leaned down, pressing a lingering kiss to her forehead. "Morning, love."

She stretched, then grinned. "Remember what I said last night? We're going shopping today."

Yoongi nodded, forcing a small smile. "Of course. Whatever you want."

What she didn't know was that he had already made sure Jungkook and Jimin would stick to her like shadows. Nothing would happen to her. Not on his watch.

The dining area was filled with chatter as everyone acted normal, even though the weight of last night still lingered in their minds. YN, however, was oblivious, excitedly talking about the market she wanted to visit.

"It's not just a regular mall," she explained, buttering a piece of toast. "It's a local market, full of stalls and small shops. There's handmade jewelry, fabrics, spices, and so much more! It's going to be so fun."

Jungkook, sitting beside her, grinned. "Are we getting food too?"

Jimin chuckled. "Of course, that's the first thing we'll do."

Yoongi glanced at Namjoon, who gave him a barely noticeable nod. They knew what they had to do.

While YN was happily planning her shopping trip, Namjoon, Jin, and J-Hope were setting their own plans in motion. They were going to find out who was behind the threat.

The local market was bustling with life. Vibrant stalls lined the streets, selling everything from handcrafted jewelry to colorful textiles. The smell of street food wafted through the air, mixing with the distant scent of fresh flowers.

YN was practically glowing with excitement. "This is amazing!" she beamed, turning to Jungkook and Jimin. "Look at everything!"

Jungkook chuckled, hands in his pockets. "I think I might get some souvenirs."

Jimin smirked. "You mean food."

Yoongi walked beside YN, his fingers occasionally brushing against hers. His eyes were always scanning the crowd, his instincts on high alert. He let her enjoy the moment, but his mind was elsewhere.

Meanwhile, Namjoon, Jin, and J-Hope had been working in the background. It didn't take them long to find out who was behind the threats.

Raghav Malik.

The very name made Yoongi's blood boil.

Namjoon had mentioned him before—a powerful enemy they had crossed paths with, someone who never forgot a grudge. And now, he had set his sights on YN.

When Jin told Yoongi the name over a brief phone call, all Yoongi did was smirk.

He had already planned what to do with him.

While Yoongi went to handle things, YN continued shopping, unaware of what was happening behind the scenes. YN's eyes sparkled as she admired the intricate bracelet in her hands. It was delicate, with tiny silver charms dangling from its chain, catching the soft golden sunlight filtering through the market stalls. She turned to Jungkook.

"Doesn't this look nice?" she asked, holding it up for him to see.

Before Jungkook could reply, a deep, familiar voice cut through the air.

"Try it on."

She turned around, her heart skipping a beat as she found Yoongi standing there, hands in his pockets, his dark eyes watching her with quiet intensity. She hadn't even noticed when he returned.

"You're back?" she asked, blinking in surprise. "Where did you go?"

Yoongi stepped forward, taking the bracelet from her fingers without answering. His hands were warm as he gently wrapped the piece around her wrist, the cool metal a stark contrast against her skin.

His fingers lingered longer than necessary.

"It looks good on you," he murmured, his voice lower now, almost intimate.

YN smiled, her heart warming at his gesture. "You always know what suits me."

Yoongi's lips curled slightly, a rare, small smile gracing his face. He lifted her wrist slightly, studying the bracelet on her skin. But his gaze slowly shifted from the jewelry to her.

His thumb lightly brushed against the inside of her wrist, tracing slow, deliberate circles.

"That's because I never stop looking at you."

A soft gasp escaped her lips, her cheeks warming under his unwavering stare. There was something about the way he said it—like he wasn't just complimenting her, but confessing something deeper.

For a moment, the world around them faded—the bustling market, the distant chatter, the aroma of street food in the air. It was just them, standing inches apart, caught in a moment that neither of them wanted to break.

A slight blush crept onto her cheeks, but before she could say anything, chaos erupted.

A loud crash.

Screams.

A sudden shift in the air.

Before anyone could react, a group of masked men appeared out of nowhere, blending seamlessly into the crowd. They wore local clothing, making them indistinguishable from the rest of the market-goers.

But their eyes were trained on one person.

YN.

Jungkook immediately grabbed her wrist. "Stay close," he ordered.

Jimin's expression darkened. "This isn't a robbery. They're here for her."

Before YN could process what was happening, one of the men lunged at her with a knife.

A sharp sting.

Pain shot through her back as the blade sliced through, deep enough to make her stumble.

"YN!"

Her vision blurred as she felt herself falling—only to be caught by strong arms.

Yoongi.

He had appeared just in time, his grip on her tightening as he pulled her against him. His eyes were wild with fury, his jaw clenched so tightly it looked painful.

Jungkook and Jimin had already engaged in a fight, trying to keep the attackers at bay. The market had turned into chaos—people screaming, running in different directions.

But Yoongi wasn't thinking about anything else.

His world narrowed down to the woman in his arms, her blood staining his hands.

She was hurt.

And someone was going to pay for it.

----------------------

💌 Author's Note:

Hey guys, I'm not sure what happened, but somehow Chapter 3 got deleted, and unfortunately, I don't have a copy of it. 😭 I managed to gather whatever was left on my device and put it together, so I'm sharing it here.

If you notice anything missing, please let me know! 💬 As far as I remember, the original chapter was 4.7k-4.8k words, but now it's 3.6k, so clearly, some parts are missing. Please bear with this for now! 🙏

That's all for now—thank you for your patience and support! 💖✨