Between Us, Always

Jun's POV

I watched, my stomach sinking, as Per announced the breakup at the press conference. My heart twisted, knowing that as celebrities, we were expected to "belong to the fans" and somehow never allowed to love freely. I glanced at Thame, who was unusually quiet. His eyes held that determined, unwavering look. I knew—he would give up everything before he'd let go of his relationship with Po. We'd do whatever it took to protect him. But I just wished we could've done more to shield Per from all of this.

I sighed, looking away, only to feel a hand gently close around mine. I turned to find Dylan beside me, offering a quiet smile of comfort, knowing exactly what was running through my mind.

This was the part of my life I hated. I knew what I was getting into when I chose this path, but watching it all unfold before my eyes still hurt. And it hurt a hundred times more when it happened to someone I cared about. Per wasn't just a friend—he was family. I glanced at him now, watching him hold that small, steady smile, not breaking down despite everything.

When the press conference ended, we all went back to the apartment we shared. Per retreated to his room and locked the door. I was half-tempted to go check on him, but Thame and Dylan both shook their heads, signaling that we needed to respect his space. Then, without hesitation, Nano tossed caution aside, grabbed the spare key, and walked straight to Per's room. He locked the door behind him, and we all exchanged glances.

I knew Per needed comfort more than anyone right now, and while we were all playing it safe, at least Nano wasn't. He was the youngest, but in this moment, he was the one who knew exactly what Per needed. Maybe, for now, all Per truly needed was someone to be there for him.

Dylan's POV

I watched as Jun quietly retreated to his room, barely making a sound. Though he was usually cheeky, fiery, and a troublemaker in his own way, today he was different. He had his quiet moments, and this was definitely one of them. I could tell that Per's announcement of his breakup had hit him hard. Po stopped by shortly after, picking up Thame to head back to his apartment for some time alone. We all needed comfort after everything that had happened.

I sighed, grabbing a beer as I plopped down in front of the TV, letting a random show run while my mind wandered aimlessly. A little while later, Per emerged, his eyes red and swollen from crying. Nano was right there beside him, gently guiding him to the couch. I opened my arms, and without hesitation, Per settled next to me, curling into my embrace. We weren't typically a touchy group—Nano was the most affectionate of us—but I knew what Per needed right now, and I wasn't about to deny him that.

Jun eventually joined us, settling on the love seat nearby. His gaze flickered between Per and me, unusually soft, as though he was watching over us without a word.