Rose opened the wardrobe, pulled out her nightdress, and turned to leave for the bathroom. But before she could take a step, a strong hand gripped her wrist.

Jungkook’s eyes locked onto hers, dark and mischievous.

“How can you just walk away like this?” he murmured, smirking. “Do you really think I’ll let you go so easily?”

Rose narrowed her eyes, her voice sharp and unwavering. “Leave my hand, Jungkook. Otherwise, you’ll regret it.”

Instead of letting go, his smirk widened. He leaned in closer, his tone taunting. “And what if I take your towel instead, hmm?”

Her cheeks flushed in anger, not embarrassment. “Shut up, Jungkook!” she snapped.

But before she could pull away, his arm snaked around her waist, dragging her against him. The dampness of her skin, the defiance in her eyes—it only fueled the dangerous spark in his gaze.

Jungkook’s grip tightened as he pulled her flush against him, his lips curling into that dangerous smirk.

“You know, princess,” he whispered, his breath warm against her ear, “it would only take one tug…and this towel will be gone.”

Rose’s heart raced, but her glare never wavered. “Touch this towel,” she hissed, “and I swear you’ll regret ever marrying me.”

Instead of being shaken, he tilted his head with amusement. “Ah…threats. You’re even prettier when you’re angry.”

Her lips curved into a sly smirk of her own. “Prettier?” she repeated softly. “Then you better take a good look now—because it’s the last one you’ll get.”

And before Jungkook could react, she stomped hard on his foot with all her strength. He hissed, his grip loosening just enough for her to snatch her wrist free.

Without a second’s hesitation, Rose darted into the bathroom, slamming the door shut and locking it.

Jungkook stood there, clutching his foot, half laughing in disbelief and half furious.

“This girl…” he muttered, a dangerous spark flashing in his eyes. “She really thinks she can challenge me.”

From inside the bathroom, Rose’s calm, mocking voice echoed.

“Goodnight, Jeon Jungkook. Next time, think twice before underestimating me.”

When Rose finally stepped out, dressed in her nightwear, she found Jungkook already sprawled across the bed, looking perfectly at ease. She let out a deep sigh, not even sparing him another glance, and walked straight to the couch. Curling up comfortably, she closed her eyes as if nothing had happened, as if his presence didn’t matter at all.

Jungkook’s eyes followed her, his expression unreadable for a moment. Then, a low dark chuckle escaped his lips.

Ahh… this girl, he thought, staring at her peaceful face. Instead of breaking, she makes me lose control. I’ve always driven women crazy for me, but she… she’s the only one who drives me crazy.

A strange glint lingered in his eyes before he finally lay back, still watching her. And with that thought consuming him, Jungkook slowly drifted off to sleep.

The next morning, sunlight spilled through the tall curtains. Jungkook opened his eyes before the alarm could even ring. For a moment, he stayed still, watching Rose curled up on the couch. Her breathing was soft, steady, unbothered—as though he didn’t exist.

A muscle ticked in his jaw.

She doesn’t fear me… not even a little. Bold enough to challenge me, stubborn enough to ignore me. Tch… Rose, do you really think I’ll let you win this game?

He freshened up and headed to his private gym, pushing his body harder than usual, but his mind refused to focus. Every stretch, every weight lift, her face flashed before him—those sharp eyes that didn’t bow down to him, the slap that still stung his pride, the towel scene that should have embarrassed her but hadn’t. Instead, she turned his challenge back on him.

By the time he sat in his study, he already had a plan. If she wants to play stubborn, I’ll make her bend in ways she never imagined. His lips curved into a dark smile.