Yoonmin in Malta

30 - Epilogue

"We won't get to gather like this for a while." Namjoon's voice cuts through the air, his brows furrowed in concentration. It's clear from the way he glances around the room that he hadn't noticed the presence of the cameras until he finished his sentence.

"At least not in front of the cameras like today," he quickly corrects himself, a flicker of concern crossing his face to avoid any rumors of BTS breaking up or being in dispute.

The seven friends have come together in the band's old apartment to record the finale of this year's Festa. Seated around a long, festively decorated table, which not long ago was covered with hearty treats that have been devoured over the past hour, enveloping them in a bittersweet atmosphere.

"So if you want to say something to our fans and to ARMY, now is the time." With these words, the band leader finally starts a conversation that has been on their hearts for far too long.

At the annual Festa dinner, they are free to talk about their thoughts and feelings. They talk about how they have experienced their journey as the most successful band in the world and what they want to achieve in the coming years. This year, however, carries a different weight. In 2022, the friends talk openly and honestly about what they have been struggling with for months. There were arguments, there were tears, and they made a decision.

They would rest their activities as a band for a while to recharge and explore their respective solo endeavors.

Many reasons contributed to this decision, but burnout was the most pressing factor. After years of giving their all and sacrificing themselves for the band, they reached a point of exhaustion.

Jimin and Yoongi's relationship had always been a source of strength for them, a safe haven amidst the chaos of their idol lives. In the beginning, their bond only grew stronger as they leaned on each other for support. Yet, as time passed, the strain of secrecy began to take its toll on both of them. The demands of being in the public eye and the constant need to hide their love had worn them down, like a relentless storm eroding a once sturdy shore.

Yoongi takes a deep breath and with a faint smile, he is the first to break the silence, hoping to ease the tension for the others who will speak next.

"I want to give you some advice," Yoongi begins, taking on the tone of a protective father speaking to his children on the verge of independence. "Solo projects can be incredibly draining. The burden of it all falls on your shoulders alone, and you have no one to lean on or share it with".

"For me personally, I've started exploring things that truly bring me joy. I'm trying new things I've never done before. You should do the same. Dive headfirst into what brings you happiness and remember not to push yourself too hard," Yoongi's expression remains serene, hinting that he is the member who has found the most inner peace in the midst of their circumstances.

The rest of the band members don't seem to be there yet, their gazes distant and their expressions somber. It's as if they are attending a funeral, and the gravity of their emotions is palpable. However, It's not the impression they wanted to convey to their fans, but the immense pressure they've been under has taken its toll. This Festa Dinner Party was meant to be a time of openness and honesty, but the burden they carry is too great.

"Actually, now I finally have the time to become an actor, but I don't feel like I would right now." Jin chuckles, bringing a small glimmer of lightness to the room. Inspired by his words, Jungkook eagerly takes his turn to speak.

"Exactly!" Jungkook exclaims, his voice full of conviction. His eyes shine with determination as he speaks.

"Today I realized again that everyone has a timeline that's right for them. It's super individual! This timing should've come to us earlier, but I guess we held it off. But we got to do it now. We're each going to take some time to have fun and experience lots of things. We promise we will return someday even more mature than we are now." With unwavering confidence, Jungkook's voice carries his heartfelt conclusion.