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

Chapter 43: The Truth That Breaks Us ⚠️

⚠️Content Warning: This chapter includes depictions of physical and emotional abuse, trauma, mental health struggles, suicidal thoughts, coercion, and revenge. Reader Discretion is advised.

Taehyung clutches his teddy bear so tightly that his knuckles turn white.

It's early. The sun's soft glow filtering through the windows, casting golden light across the living room.

But there is no warmth.

Not in the air.
Not in this moment.

Only the crushing weight of what is about to be said.

Yoongi and I sit close-so close-pressed against him, bodies wrapped around his like a shield.

Like if we hold him tightly enough, we can keep him from unraveling.

But he hasn't looked at us.
Not since he spoke those words.

"I'm ready to tell you everything."

His head is bowed low, chin tucked behind the oversized bear in his lap.

His fingers grip the worn fabric like a lifeline, like if he lets go, he'll shatter.

His shoulders are rigid. Tense.
Like he's bracing for impact.
Like he expects us to turn away.

Yoongi's hand is on his knee-a steady, unmoving anchor.

Mine is wrapped around his fingers, squeezing softly, silently telling him
"You are safe."
"We are here."
"We will not leave you."

Taehyung inhales shakily.

And then-
In a voice so quiet, so fragile, I almost don't hear it-
He begins.

"I was left at an orphanage when I was three."

His voice is steady, but the edges waver. Like he's barely holding it together.

"My parents... died in a car crash."
A pause.

He swallows.
"I don't remember them much. Just... little things. My mom's voice when she sang. My dad's laugh."

Yoongi's fingers twitch against his knee. His entire body goes impossibly still.

I squeeze Taehyung's hand. "Tae..."

He shakes his head, barely, as if afraid that if he stops now, he'll lose the ability to keep going.

"I was alone after that."
His grip tightens around the bear.

"No one came for me. No family. No relatives."

His voice cracks. Just slightly.

"No one wanted me."

Yoongi flinches.

Not just a subtle shift-his whole body reacts. A sharp inhale, fingers curling into fists against his thigh, as if those words physically hurt him.

Taehyung swallows hard.