Stigma Love's Algorithm [ A BTS x Reader Poly ]

Chapter 21: Between Rides and Glances

"Isn't it a little crowded in there with the bear, too?" I teased.

Yoongi raised an eyebrow, but there was a warmth in his expression. "Taehyung likes his new friend, I guess."

Taehyung caught my teasing tone, and his cheeks flushed slightly, but he wasn't embarrassed.

Instead, he smiled down at the bear protectively, running his fingers over its soft fur as if reassuring it everything would be okay.

"You know," Taehyung said, glancing at me with a grin, "sometimes you just need something to hold on to, right?"

I couldn't help but smile at the sincerity in his voice. "I get it," I replied. "I'm just surprised you're taking him everywhere."

"It's a good bear," Taehyung said simply, as though that was the only explanation needed.

As the rollercoaster took off, Taehyung's grip on the bear tightened slightly, though his excitement was still obvious.

He didn't want it flying out of his hands, even as he threw his head back, laughing in exhilaration.

It was the kind of carefree joy I was used to seeing from him, but this time, there was something a little more vulnerable beneath it.

When the ride ended, Taehyung carefully scooped up the teddy bear, cradling it to his chest like a precious treasure.

He whispered something to it-probably just a joke or an inside comment-before shooting Yoongi a playful smile.

Yoongi chuckled softly, shaking his head as if he'd been expecting this all along. "Are you sure the bear doesn't need its own seat next time?" he teased, nudging Taehyung's shoulder.

Taehyung, still holding the bear tightly, let out a soft laugh. "It's fine. He's my emotional support bear."

I let out a quiet laugh too, unable to stop the fondness that bloomed in my chest.

Watching Taehyung with that bear was oddly heartwarming.

He didn't care how silly it might have looked; he just cared about the comfort it gave him.

Taehyung was practically glowing as he tugged us along, his bear still in hand, eyes bright with excitement, while Yoongi and I walked side by side, a quieter energy surrounding us.

As much as Taehyung's excitement was contagious, I couldn't help but be pulled toward the steady warmth of Yoongi beside me, the comfort of his quiet presence a perfect balance to the lively energy of the night.

Yoongi's gaze caught mine for a brief moment, a soft smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

It wasn't the first time he'd looked at me like that-his quiet affection always made my heart skip a beat.

I nudged him lightly, a playful grin forming on my lips. "You know, I didn't think you'd enjoy this place as much as you are," I teased, raising an eyebrow.

Yoongi chuckled softly, his voice low and smooth. "I didn't say I didn't enjoy it," he replied with a smirk. "I just like being with you guys."

The simple sincerity of his words made something warm bloom in my chest.

We made our way to another ride-a spinning teacup.