Fragments of fragile heart

The days passed, and Jungkook found himself slipping back into the same cycle. While his part-time work provided a brief escape, the weight of his home life and the uneasiness at college never truly left him. His friends had apologized, and for a while, things seemed to improve, but Junghwon’s subtle manipulations began to resurface.

Junghwon had a way of playing innocent, always smiling and acting kind when others were around. Yet, when it was just him and Jungkook, his true colors showed.

"Wow, Kookie," Junghwon said one day, leaning casually against a table as Jungkook was sketching in his notebook. "You’ve got all this talent, and still, you’re... just you. It’s almost sad, isn’t it?"

Jungkook stiffened, but he didn’t respond. He had learned that reacting only gave Junghwon more satisfaction.

And then there was Taehyung.

Whenever Jungkook tried to spend time with Taehyung, Junghwon somehow managed to insert himself between them.

One evening, after class, Taehyung had excitedly approached Jungkook. “Kookie, let’s grab some coffee. I found this new place I think you’ll love.”

Jungkook’s eyes lit up. “Really? That sounds great, hyu—”

“Kookie!” Junghwon interrupted, appearing out of nowhere. “Tae-hyung! I just remembered! Didn’t you promise to help me with that project? It’s due tomorrow, and I’m completely lost!”

Taehyung frowned, glancing between Jungkook and Junghwon. “Uh, I did… But I was planning to—”

“It won’t take long,” Junghwon said with a wide, pleading smile. “You can get coffee after, right?”

Jungkook’s heart sank. He knew Taehyung wouldn’t refuse someone asking for help, and Junghwon was exploiting that kindness.

“Sure,” Taehyung finally said, though he looked apologetic. “Kookie, I’ll catch up with you later, okay?”

Jungkook forced a smile. “Yeah, no problem.”

As Taehyung walked away with Junghwon, Jungkook felt an ache in his chest. He wasn’t upset with Taehyung—it wasn’t his fault. But he couldn’t shake the feeling of being pushed aside, of being insignificant.

---

Junghwon’s game continued for days. He found excuses to monopolize Taehyung’s time, whether it was asking for help, sharing meals, or even joining their conversations uninvited.

Taehyung, oblivious to Junghwon’s intentions, tried to balance his time with both of them. But Jungkook could see through the facade. Junghwon’s mocking smirks and pointed comments during their interactions were clear only to Jungkook.

One afternoon, Jungkook and Taehyung managed to find a quiet moment in the art room. Taehyung was admiring Jungkook’s latest painting—a serene landscape with a vibrant, golden sunset.

“It’s beautiful, Kookie,” Taehyung said, his voice soft with admiration.

Jungkook’s lips curved into a small smile. “Thanks, hyung.”

Just as Jungkook was about to suggest grabbing dinner, Junghwon walked in.

“There you are, Tae-hyung!” Junghwon said cheerfully, completely ignoring Jungkook. “I’ve been looking all over for you. Can you come help me with something real quick?”

Taehyung hesitated. “I was just—”

“It’s urgent,” Junghwon pressed, flashing his best innocent expression.