Our Story

Chapter 28: The Anchor

Jungkook was midway through his weekly strategy meeting at King's Department Store. As the Legal Director, these sessions were critical, providing direction and motivating his team. Today, he stood at the head of the sleek conference table, discussing the latest sales figures with his department leads, each displaying a mix of attentiveness and anticipation.

"Let's focus on these key performance indicators for next quarter," Jungkook said, pointing to the graph displayed on the large screen. "We need to ensure our customer engagement initiatives align with our revenue goals."

Just as the discussion was gaining momentum, Jungkook's secretary, a diligent young man named Taemin, entered the room hesitantly. "Excuse me, Mr. Jeon," Taemin interrupted softly but urgently. "You have a call. It's Secretary Jimin, calling on behalf of Mr. Kim."

Jungkook's brow furrowed with concern. Jimin, Taehyung's secretary, wouldn't call during a meeting unless it was something serious. "Alright," he said, masking his worry with a composed tone. "I'll take the call in my office. Yoongi, please continue leading the discussion on the next agenda item."

As Jungkook walked briskly to his office, a sense of dread settled over him. He picked up the phone, his voice steady but anxious. "Secretary Jimin, what's going on? Is Taehyung okay?"

Jimin's voice was strained. "Mr. Jeon, it's Taehyung. He's... not responsive. He was walking around aimlessly, not recognizing anyone. He told me to call you if something like this happened because you're his anchor."

Jungkook's heart skipped a beat. "Where is he now?" he asked, already grabbing his coat.

"We're outside his office. He was supposed to head to a meeting, but he wouldn't listen. He just kept pacing."

"I'm on my way. Call Jin; he'll take over Taehyung's meeting," Jungkook instructed, rushing out of his office. "Make sure Taehyung doesn't leave. I'll be there soon."

When Jungkook arrived at Taehyung's office, he could see the worried faces of the staff as they glanced at their boss, who was pacing back and forth in a daze. Jungkook's heart ached at the sight. Taehyung, usually so poised and commanding, looked lost and disconnected from reality.

"Please, give us some privacy," Jungkook requested softly, his voice calm but authoritative. The staff quickly dispersed, leaving only Jimin standing nearby, his eyes filled with concern.

Jungkook understood why Jimin stayed; Taehyung might be a tough boss, but he was also his friend, and Jimin cared deeply for him. Jungkook gave him a reassuring nod before slowly approaching Taehyung. He gently placed a hand on Taehyung's shoulder, causing him to stop his restless pacing.

"Taehyung," Jungkook said softly, his voice full of warmth and love. He moved to face him, his hand caressing Taehyung's cheek gently. "Baby, it's me, Jungkook. I'm here. I'm bringing you back. Come back to me. I'm here, and I love you."

Taehyung blinked, his eyes slowly focusing on Jungkook. Tears began to well up and spill down his cheeks. The distance in his gaze started to fade as recognition returned. He placed his hand over Jungkook's, which rested on his cheek, grounding himself in the familiar touch.

"I love you too," Taehyung whispered, his voice trembling.

Jungkook smiled, relief washing over him. "Let's go to your office and sit down," he suggested softly. He guided Taehyung to the couch in his office, where Jimin was already waiting with a glass of water.

Jimin handed the water to Taehyung, his eyes filled with worry. "Are you okay, sir?" he asked gently.

Taehyung nodded slowly, still holding onto Jungkook's hand as if it were his lifeline. "Thank you, Jimin," Jungkook said, appreciating his support. "Can we have a minute alone?"

Jimin hesitated but then nodded, stepping out and closing the door quietly behind him.

Once they were alone, Taehyung let out a shaky breath. "I was so scared, Kookie," he whispered, tears slipping down his face.

Jungkook pulled him into a comforting embrace, holding him close. "I know, baby. But I'm here. I'm always here. I'm your anchor, and I'll always bring you back," he reassured him, his voice filled with love and conviction.

Taehyung clung to Jungkook, finding solace in his presence. "I can't believe I lost control like that," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion.

"You don't have to go through this alone, Taehyung," Jungkook said softly. "I know we talk about it's time you step down for a bit, at least until after your surgery. You don't need that added pressure. Jin would be more than happy to handle things for you."

Taehyung looked up, concern etched on his face. "But what about you, Jungkook? You would be the next in line to take over. How can I not ask you?"

Jungkook smiled gently, brushing a tear from Taehyung's cheek. "But baby, I'm going to be with you every day," he replied, his voice tender and full of resolve. "We'll get through this together, just like we always do. If you don't want to step down I'll make sure to remember all your appointments, meetings—everything you need. You won't have to worry about anything but getting better."

Taehyung's eyes filled with gratitude and love. "I don't know what I'd do without you," he whispered.

"You don't have to think about that," Jungkook said, pressing a gentle kiss to Taehyung's forehead. "Because I'm not going anywhere. We're in this together, and I'll be here every step of the way."

As they sat there, wrapped in each other's arms, the weight of the world seemed a little lighter. They drew strength from their love and the unwavering bond that had seen them through so many challenges. In Jungkook's embrace, Taehyung found the courage to face whatever lay ahead, knowing that with Jungkook by his side, he could overcome anything.