Fragments of fragile heart

The next few days passed slowly. Jungkook's recovery was steady, but his heart remained distant. He accepted the care of his friends and Taehyung without protest, but there was an underlying sadness that never quite left his expression. It was as though the weight of everything he had gone through was still pressing on him, no matter how much comfort those around him tried to offer.

Jungkook didn't speak much, and when he did, it was only the bare minimum needed. His once bright smile was a distant memory, replaced by a quiet, almost pained expression that seemed to haunt him wherever he went.

Taehyung continued to take the lead in caring for Jungkook, his attention never wavering. Whether it was reminding him to take his medication or simply sitting with him during the quiet moments, Taehyung was always there. His presence, though silent at times, spoke volumes, but even he struggled to bridge the gap that had formed between them.Each morning, Taehyung woke up early to check on Jungkook, often finding him still asleep.

Taehyung couldn't help but admire Jungkook's serene features while he slept, his long lashes resting against his cheeks, and his soft pout making him look like the innocent, carefree boy Taehyung once knew. There was something about watching Jungkook like this that made Taehyung's heart ache and flutter at the same time.

"How can someone look this beautiful even when sleeping?" Taehyung whispered , brushing a stray strand of hair from Jungkook's face.

When Jungkook stirred awake, Taehyung immediately smiled. "Good morning, sleepyhead. Ready for breakfast?"

Jungkook didn't respond at first, his gaze distant. Then, finally, he murmured, "You didn't have to..."

Taehyung smiled gently. "I wanted to. Come on, sit up. You need to eat."

Taehyung helped him sit up, propping him against the pillows, helped him brush his teeth then brought a tray of warm porridge. He patiently fed Jungkook, gently blowing on each spoonful to cool it down.

When Jungkook finished eating, Taehyung set the tray aside and sat on the edge of the bed.

"Kookie," Taehyung said crouching beside him with a warm smile. "Let's get you cleaned up, okay? I'll use a wet cloth. You don't need to move."

Jungkook hesitated, his eyes filled with uncertainty. "I... I can do it myself," he mumbled, though his voice lacked strength.

Taehyung shook his head gently. "You're still recovering. Just let me help you this once. If it makes you uncomfortable, tell me to stop, and I will. I promise."

After a long pause, Jungkook gave a small nod, allowing Taehyung to proceed. Taehyung worked carefully, speaking softly to Jungkook the entire time to keep him at ease. When it came to changing Jungkook's clothes, Taehyung made sure to ask for permission first, ensuring Jungkook felt safe and respected.

"Kookie, is it okay if I help you change? I'll be quick, and if you're uncomfortable, we can stop," Taehyung said gently, waiting for Jungkook's hesitant nod before proceeding.

Each gesture was filled with care and tenderness, These moments were intimate, yet Taehyung remained respectful and tender, his touch never lingering too long but enough to reassure Jungkook that he was safe.

Taehyung couldn't deny the feelings stirring within him-feelings he didn't fully understand yet. All he knew was that he wanted to protect Jungkook, to be there for him no matter what.

By afternoon, the rest of the group arrived. Jin, Jimin, Namjoon, Yoongi, and Hoseok brought an energetic buzz to the quiet house.

"Taehyung, step aside. Let a real chef take over," Jin declared as he tied an apron around himself, ready to take control of the kitchen.