Stay With Me

Chapter Twenty-six

The fluorescent lights flickered softly in the hospital corridor, casting a sterile glow over everything. Yoojung sat on a plastic chair, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her sweater. She stole glances at the closed door of the emergency room, her heart heavy with worry. Beside her, Bogum leaned against the wall, his expression a mix of concern and regret.

"Sunshine" Bogum began, breaking the silence that hung heavily between them. "I can't believe this happened. I wish I had known... maybe I could have done something."

Yoojung shook her head, tears brimming in her eyes. "It's not your fault, Gummy. Taehyung has been struggling for so long, and I didn't see the signs either. I thought he was getting better."

Bogum sighed, running a hand through his hair. "You shouldn't blame yourself. Sometimes, people hide their pain so well that it's hard to notice until it's too late."

Yoojung's voice trembled as she replied, "But he's my brother! I should have been there for him. I should have listened more closely."

Bogum shifted closer, his voice softening. "You were there for him in ways you might not even realize. You always supported him, even when things got tough between us." 

He paused, searching her eyes. "I know we've had our differences, but I care about Taehyung too. He deserves all the support he can get right now."

Yoojung looked down at her hands, feeling the weight of their shared history. "I remember when you two used to play video games together for hours. Taehyung always looked up to you."

"Yeah," Bogum smiled sadly at the memory. "He was so full of life back then. It hurts to see him like this."

Just then, the door swung open and a doctor stepped out, his expression calm but serious. "Who's the patient Taehyung's family? We have an update on Taehyung." Both Yoojung and Bogum stood up instantly, their hearts racing.

"He's out of immediate danger," the doctor said reassuringly. "But he needs rest and support during his recovery. It's crucial for his mental health."

"Thank you," Yoojung breathed out in relief, tears spilling down her cheeks as she wiped them away quickly.

"Can we see him?" Bogum asked ungently.

The doctor nodded. "Yes, but keep in mind he may be disoriented and tired."

As they walked towards Taehyung's room, Yoojung felt a mix of hope and fear coursing through her veins. She glanced at Bogum, who was walking beside her with a determined look.

"Whatever happens in there," he said quietly, "we need to be strong for him."

Yoojung nodded, taking a deep breath as they reached the door. She pushed it open gently and stepped inside. Taehyung lay in the hospital bed, pale but breathing steadily. His eyes fluttered open as they entered, confusion etched on his face.

"Yoojung Noona? Bogum hyung?" he croaked.

"Hey," Yoojung whispered, rushing to his side and taking his hand in hers. "We're here for you."

Bogum stood a little behind her, his heart aching at the sight of his friend in such a vulnerable state. "You scared us, Tae," he said softly.

Taehyung blinked slowly, processing their presence. "I'm sorry... I didn't mean to..."

Yoojung squeezed his hand tighter. "You don't need to apologize. We just want you to get better."