Bloom in the darkness

Chapter 15

Jungkook sat in his hospital bed, staring at the blank wall. His thoughts were a tumultuous storm, each wave crashing against the shore of his consciousness. The smell of antiseptic filled the air, a stark contrast to the vibrant world outside that was moving without him. His eyes drifted to the window, the setting sun casting a warm glow across the room.

On the bedside table, a newspaper lay folded, forgotten by a nurse during their morning rounds. The headline caught Jungkook's eye: "City's Largest Music Festival Kicks Off This Weekend!" His heart skipped a beat. He had always dreamed of being part of that pulsing, colorful crowd, losing himself in the music that had been his sanctuary for so long.

Taehyung, walked in with a tray of medication. Jungkook's eyes lit up when he saw the paper. "Look," he said, pointing at the headline. "It's this weekend. Can you believe it?"

Taehyung's gaze followed Jungkook's finger to the newspaper. He sighed, his eyes filled with a mix of pity and love. "Jungkook," he began, his voice gentle yet firm. "You know you can't go."

Jungkook's enthusiasm didn't waver. "But why not?" he pleaded. "I've never been to one, and now... I might never get the chance."

Taehyung set the tray down and took Jungkook's hand, his thumb tracing gentle circles. "Because you're not well enough," he said softly. "And your father would never allow it."

The room grew quiet, the hum of the hospital machinery a stark reminder of the world that separated Jungkook from the festival's promise of freedom and joy. His mind raced with thoughts of defying the odds, of feeling alive amidst the throb of bass and the laughter of the crowd.

But as he looked into Taehyung's eyes, filled with concern and a hint of sadness, Jungkook knew the truth. His body was weak, and the outside world was a risk he couldn't take. Yet, the flame of rebellion burned within him, a fire that no diagnosis could extinguish.

---

Jungkook leaned back against the pillows, his eyes never leaving Taehyung's. He knew his doctor baby had his best interests at heart, but he also knew how to play his cards right. "You remember what the music does to me, right?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hopeful smile. "How it makes me feel alive?"

Taehyung's grip on his hand tightened, and he nodded solemnly. "I do," he murmured. "But we have to think about your health."

Jungkook's eyes searched Taehyung's, looking for a crack in his resolve. "What if I promise to take it easy?" he said, his voice a soft caress. "Just for a few hours. Please, Tae."

Taehyung sighed, his features etched with the weight of his decision. He knew Jungkook's condition was serious, but he also knew the power of hope and the joy music brought to his soul. He couldn't bear the thought of taking that away from him, not when time was already so precious.

After a moment of contemplation, Taehyung leaned in closer, his voice a whisper. "Okay," he conceded. "But only for a few hours, and we'll need to sneak out."

Jungkook's eyes widened with excitement, and he nodded vigorously. "I'll do anything," he promised. "Thank you, Tae."

They hatched a plan, a secret mission that had Jungkook's heart racing with excitement. He knew the risks, but the thought of experiencing a music festival, of feeling the vibrations of the bass in his chest and the warmth of the sun on his face, was worth it.

The day of the festival, Jungkook put on a pair of oversized sunglasses and a hat to cover his hospital gown. Taehyung helped him into a wheelchair, whispering words of caution and care. His heart was in his throat as they made their way to the elevator, dodging nurses and doctors.