RED STRING REWRITTEN

45

One week later

The sunlight sneaks through the curtains.
Jungkook is sitting on the bed, fully awake, wearing a loose white hoodie and sweatpants.
His bruises are gone, his skin warm and healthy again.

Taehyung is gently folding Jungkook’s clothes into a small hospital bag.

Fourth is sitting on the sofa chair, knees pulled up, hugging them tightly.
Gemini is right beside him, his hand hovering close like he wants to comfort him but waits for permission.

Jimin, Namjoon, Jin and Suga are by the table, checking the discharge papers.

Hobi walks in with two coffees.

The atmosphere is silent… heavy… afraid to speak the first word.

Jungkook (softly):
“So… it’s really today.”

Taehyung looks up immediately.

Taehyung (gentle smile):
“Yes, baby. You’re strong again.”

Jungkook’s eyes soften at the word “baby.”

Jungkook:
“Tae… you took care of me every second.
I wouldn’t be standing if it wasn't for you.”

Taehyung lowers his head shyly.

Taehyung:
“I just… didn’t want to lose you again.”

Jungkook:
“You won’t. Ever.”

Fourth watches them quietly.
His grip tightens.

Gemini notices.

Gemini (soft whisper to Fourth):
“Are you okay?”

Fourth shakes his head slightly.

Fourth (tiny voice):
“Change… scares me…”

Gemini:
“I know. That’s why I’m staying close.”

Fourth leans slightly closer to him—not touching, but trusting the presence.

Namjoon clears his throat.

Namjoon:
“Alright. We need to settle something important.
Where everyone is going to stay now.”

Jin nods seriously.

Jin:
“Your parents won’t sit quietly.
So we have to be smart.”

Fourth tenses instantly.
Gemini places his hand gently near Fourth’s, giving him a sense of safety.

Taehyung stands straight.

Taehyung:
“We can’t go back to our old home. They know everything about us.”

Jungkook:
“I’ve already arranged condos.”

Everyone turns to him.

Jungkook (calm but assertive):
“One for me and Taehyung.”

Taehyung blushes instantly.

Taehyung:
“Jungkook—”

Jungkook:
“You’re not sleeping far from me again. That’s final.”

Taehyung’s cheeks go red, but he says nothing.

Namjoon:

“Good. Now what about Fourth?”

Fourth’s eyes widen.
He curls into himself like a scared kitten.

Fourth (nervous):
“Hyung… d-do I have to stay alone?”

Gemini (immediately, protective tone):
“No. He won’t.”

Jimin (sharply):
“ABSOLUTELY not with you.”