Fragments of fragile heart

The days passed steadily, and Jungkook’s physical injuries had mostly healed, though the emotional wounds remained. Taehyung, who had been doting on Jungkook 24/7, was finally convinced to return to college after much persuasion from Jungkook himself

“Kookie, I don’t feel right leaving you alone,” Taehyung said one morning, kneeling by Jungkook’s bed as they prepared to discuss the day ahead.

Jungkook, his voice soft but firm, replied, “Tae, I’ll be fine. You’ve done so much for me already. You need to focus on your studies too.”

Taehyung hesitated, his eyes scanning Jungkook’s face for any signs of discomfort. “But what if you need something? I can’t focus in class knowing you’re alone.”

“I’ll manage,” Jungkook whispered, his lips curling into the faintest smile.

Two weeks had passed since Taehyung had returned to college at Jungkook's insistence.Taehyung reluctantly agreed, with the condition that someone would always stay with Jungkook while he was away.

During Taehyung’s classes, Jin often came over to spend time with Jungkook. The elder made sure to cook for him, check his injuries, and occasionally coax him into small conversations. Despite his injuries healing, Jungkook’s demeanor hadn’t changed much. He remained reserved, speaking only when necessary.

Despite attending college, Taehyung's mind constantly wandered to Jungkook. Every break, he would rush back home, sometimes skipping meals or even shorter classes just to see Jungkook. His classmates and teachers noticed his distracted demeanor and frequent exits. One day, Taehyung's professor, who also adored Jungkook as a former student, stopped him after class.

“Taehyung, how’s Jungkook doing? I heard he wasn’t well.”?” the professor asked, his tone laced with genuine concern.

Taehyung hesitated, not wanting to divulge too much." He’s healing... slowly. Thank you for asking, sir” he replied carefully. “It’s going to take some time, but he’ll be okay.”

The professor nodded, though his concern didn’t wane. “Please let him know we’re thinking of him. And you too, Taehyung—don’t forget to take care of yourself.”

Taehyung managed a small smile but felt a pang in his chest. If only people knew how much Jungkook had endured.

The interactions with his classmates were no easier. Jungkook had been immensely popular, both for his academic excellence and his kind, humble demeanor. Many students approached Taehyung with questions. Among them was a girl who had always tried to catch Jungkook’s attention, often lingering around him during breaks.

She approached Taehyung after class one day, her voice laced with feigned sweetness. “Taehyung-ssi, how’s Jungkook? I’ve been so worried about him. Will he be back soon? Maybe I could visit him.”

Something inside Taehyung bristled. He didn’t understand why, but the thought of her meeting Jungkook made him uneasy. He responded coldly, “He’s not ready for visitors right now. Besides, he needs rest, not interruptions.”

The girl blinked, taken aback by his tone. Taehyung walked away without waiting for a response, leaving her and the other classmates whispering. Jimin, who had been nearby, raised an eyebrow at Taehyung’s behavior. Taehyung was usually polite, even with people he didn’t particularly like. This protective streak was new, and Jimin couldn’t help but smirk a little, filing the observation away for  teasing.

As they walked to their next class, Jimin teased, “Tae, that was... intense. I’ve never seen you talk to someone like that.”

Taehyung shrugged, his face unreadable. “She was being too pushy.”