THE ANDROID's HEART

01 | A Year Of Android's

The year is 2224.

The skyline of Seoul has changed beyond recognition, with skyscrapers reaching into the clouds, reflecting the vibrant neon lights that pulse throughout the city. Airborne cars glide effortlessly between buildings, while androids of all shapes and sizes blend seamlessly into everyday life. The world has entered a new age—an age where humans and machines coexist in perfect harmony.

Tonight, one man is at the heart of it all.

Inside the prestigious NeoScience Institute, a grand celebration is in full swing. Taehyung, the man of the hour, stands at the center of a lavish ballroom, surrounded by some of the brightest minds in the world. Reporters, CEOs of top tech firms, and government officials mingle, their eyes occasionally drifting toward the sleek androids serving drinks and attending to the guests—each one a testament to Taehyung’s brilliance.

Dressed in a tailored black suit that contrasts with the modern white and silver decor, Taehyung radiates confidence. His sharp features and composed demeanor make him the image of success. The cameras flash constantly as he smiles politely for the press, shaking hands with influential figures who congratulate him on his latest achievement—a groundbreaking android model designed to handle complex tasks with an intelligence nearly indistinguishable from humans.

"Dr. Kim," a reporter calls out from the crowd, "how does it feel to know that your invention will change the way we live forever?"

Taehyung smiles, though his mind is already miles away. "I believe we’re just scratching the surface of what’s possible. The future is wide open, and I’m just lucky to be part of the journey."

The room erupts in applause. Champagne glasses clink as Taehyung lifts his own in a toast to the future, but even in the midst of all the praise and celebration, he can’t shake the thought of the project waiting for him back in his lab. The android he had just presented to the world was impressive, yes, but it was not his masterpiece. That title was reserved for something else. Something far more revolutionary. Something secret.

Amidst the crowd, Jungkook stands at the edge of the ballroom, feeling out of place. Clad in a simple white shirt and jeans, he watches Taehyung bask in the spotlight, surrounded by adoring fans and colleagues. A bitter taste fills his mouth as he clenches his fists, grappling with a surge of jealousy. Why did Taehyung always have to be the center of attention?

With each laugh and cheer that rises from the crowd, Jungkook's heart sinks deeper. He had worked just as hard, if not harder, but somehow, Taehyung always managed to steal the show. As the crowd celebrates, Jungkook feels invisible, a mere bystander to Taehyung's success.

"Another round of applause for our very own Dr. Kim Taehyung!" the event’s host exclaims, pulling Jungkook back into reality.

With a forced smile, Jungkook turns away, retreating to a quieter corner of the room. He watches the festivities unfold from a distance, his mind racing. "I should have been the one up there," he mutters to himself, frustration bubbling beneath the surface.

Suddenly, Jimin, Taehyung's closest friend, approaches him with a friendly grin. "Hey, Jungkook! You made it!"

"Yeah, I came to support," Jungkook replies, his tone flat. "Looks like Taehyung doesn't need any more of that. He's got the whole world cheering for him."

Jimin glances back at the crowd, a hint of sympathy in his eyes. "It's not just about him, you know. He’s worked really hard for this."

“Hard work doesn’t matter if you’re not in the spotlight,” Jungkook snaps, the tension in his voice clear. “I’m tired of always being in the background.”

Jimin frowns, sensing the weight of Jungkook’s feelings. "You should talk to him. You’re both brilliant scientists in your own right."

“Talk to him?” Jungkook scoffs. “What’s the point? He’ll just think I’m bitter. Maybe I am. I’m done being overlooked.”

With that, Jungkook turns away, his gaze landing on a group of androids serving drinks. An idea begins to form in his mind—something that could shift the balance of power. If he could just prove that he’s better, he wouldn’t have to feel this way anymore.

Meanwhile, the crowd’s cheers grow louder, drowning out his thoughts. Jungkook glances back at Taehyung, who stands tall, soaking in the admiration, and for the first time, Jungkook realizes he can’t let this moment pass him by.