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

Chapter 80: Love, Laughter & Liquor

"Perfect," Taehyung declares, clapping his hands together, his eyes practically sparkling. "A masterpiece!"

Joon hums, wrapping an arm around my waist as he surveys their work. "I have to admit, it does look incredible."

I glance up at him, teasing. "See? I told you letting Tae take creative control would work out."

Namjoon laughs, pressing a lingering kiss to my temple. "Okay, okay. I'll admit it."

"Can we eat now?" Yoongi drawls, leaning back in his seat with an air of practiced indifference-but the way his fingers absently tap against the soft fur of Tigger gives him away.

The tiny plush tiger, a prize Jin had won for Taehyung at a festival, sits beside his plate like an honored guest.

Meanwhile, Teddy-the oversized bear Tae refuses to part with-rests comfortably squished against his side.

Taehyung lets out an exaggerated gasp, clutching his chest in mock offense.

"Hyung, at least pretend to respect the guests of honor," he scolds, carefully adjusting Tigger so he's sitting up properly.

"They have been waiting all year for this meal."

Yoongi gives him a flat look, but when Taehyung crosses his arms in protest, he sighs and reaches over, straightening the tiny bow tie around Teddy's neck.

"There. Better?"

Taehyung nods approvingly before leaning down, whispering something conspiratorial into Teddy's ear. Then, with the utmost seriousness, he turns back to the group.

"Teddy says he feels very unappreciated."

Namjoon groans. "Tae-"

But Yoongi, without missing a beat, lifts his glass and deadpans, "Tell Teddy I'll make it up to him with extra dessert."

Taehyung narrows his eyes. "You promise?"

"I solemnly swear."

Taehyung hums, pretending to consider it before nodding in approval. "Alright. But you're lucky Tigger is kinder than me. He says we accept your offer."

With a regal nod, he lifts his glass and clinks it against Yoongi's, sealing the deal.

Across the table, Namjoon drops his head into his hands. "I can't believe I share my life with you people."

Tae simply grins, twirling a fork between his fingers. "You love it."

Before Yoongi can retaliate with another deadpan remark, Jin oppa sweeps into the room with all the grace of a seasoned host.

"Not yet!" he interrupts, lifting his glass high. "We need a toast first."

We all groan in unison, but there's no real annoyance-just the kind of playful exasperation that comes with knowing someone so deeply, with loving them anyway.

Jin's gaze softens as he looks at all of us.

"This is our first Christmas together as soulmates," he starts, his voice warm, steady, filled with something deep and unspoken-something that makes my chest ache with love.

"And honestly, I can't imagine a better way to spend it."

Namjoon nods, his usual teasing smirk replaced by something gentler as he lifts his glass. "To soulmates."

"To family," Yoongi adds, squeezing my hand.

"To love," I whisper, my throat tight with emotion.

Taehyung, ever dramatic, places a hand over his heart. "To me, for bringing you all together."