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

Chapter 41: Warmth of the Den ⚠️

But as my eyes adjust to the dim light filtering through the curtains, I see it again-the bruises.

The cuts.

The bandaid on his lip.

The swollen skin near his eye.

My chest tightens painfully.

Gently, carefully, I lean in and press a soft kiss to his forehead.

He doesn't stir.

I let my lips linger for a second longer before pulling back, blinking against the sting in my eyes.

It's unbearable-seeing him like this.

Knowing that he must have been suffering alone for so long.

I inhale deeply, trying to steady myself.

Then, slowly, I ease my arms away from him, making sure not to wake him as I slip out of bed.

I glance around.

Yoongi is not here.

My stomach twists.

I know where he is.

And I know exactly what state I'm about to find him in

I find him in the dining area, sitting at the table.

A glass of water sits in front of him, untouched.

His elbows rest on the table, hands covering his face, head bowed.

His shoulders don't shake.

He isn't sobbing.

But I know.

I can see it.

The silent grief. The quiet storm.

The way his entire body is coiled with something raw, something dangerous.

I step closer, my heart aching.

And then I hear it.

A sharp inhale.

The barely-there sound of a breath that shudders.

I exhale softly before reaching for his hand.

His fingers twitch under mine, but he doesn't lift his head.

I squeeze gently.

That's all it takes.

His hand tightens around mine, his grip desperate-like he needs something solid to hold onto.

Then, slowly, he lowers his hands.

And I break.

His face is slack, his lips parted, tears slipping down his cheeks.