Open Doors

Chapter 4 - Unraveling

The sterile smell of antiseptic filled the air as So-Moon lay in the hospital bed, the rhythmic beep of the heart monitor a constant reminder of the present moment. The soft afternoon light streamed through the window, casting a warm glow on the stark white walls. Although he was physically safe, a sense of vulnerability lingered.

News of the incident had spread quickly, igniting speculation and concern among fans and media alike. Outside the hospital, reporters gathered, hoping to catch a glimpse of the beloved idol or glean information about his condition. So-Moon could only imagine the headlines that were swirling, each one a reflection of the chaos surrounding him.

In the waiting room, Tae-Sun, Min-Ho, Ji-Hwan, and Void kept a close watch, their expressions a mixture of worry and determination. The boys had taken shifts to ensure that So-Moon was never alone, providing comfort during his toughest moments.

"Did you see the news?" Ji-Hwan asked, his voice low as he pulled out his phone. "They're saying Moon was taken to the hospital, but no one knows why. It's all speculation."

Tae-Sun sighed, running a hand through his hair. "They're going to make it worse if they don't have the facts. We need to protect him from this."

Void, usually stoic, added, "We should issue a statement. Something to clarify the situation and to ensure that his privacy is respected."

As the conversation continued, they heard the distant sound of reporters shouting questions outside. "Is So-Moon okay? What happened to him?" The noise was a stark reminder of the world outside, where fans anxiously awaited news.

In the hospital room, So-Moon watched the news on a muted television screen, his heart sinking as he heard snippets of the coverage. Words like "crisis" and "mystery" echoed in his mind, deepening his sense of unease. The reporters painted a picture of drama that didn't align with his reality, and he felt like a pawn in a game far beyond his control.

Just then, a nurse entered the room, breaking his train of thought. "How are you feeling, So-Moon?" she asked kindly, checking his vitals.

"Better, I guess," he replied, though the uncertainty lingered in his voice.

"We're going to keep you for a little while longer, just to be safe," the nurse explained. "But I can assure you, you're in good hands."

So-Moon managed a small smile, grateful for her reassurance. Yet, as the nurse left, he couldn't shake the feeling of being under scrutiny. The thought of his friends waiting anxiously for news made him feel both supported and guilty.

Meanwhile, back in the waiting room, the boys huddled together, discussing how best to address the media's frenzy. They wanted to protect So-Moon, but they also understood the importance of transparency with their fans.

"Maybe we should have a press conference?" Min-Ho suggested, his voice tense. "Just to clarify what's happening and reassure everyone that Moon is okay."

But beneath his resolve lay a deeper anxiety. The entire situation felt like a chain reaction triggered by his actions—a video of him stealing a quick kiss from Tae-Sun before their concert in New York. That innocent moment had spiraled into chaos, attracting unwanted attention and culminating in the incident that had left So-Moon shaken.

"I just can't help but feel responsible," Min-Ho confessed, running a hand through his hair. "It all started because of that video. If I hadn't—"

Tae-Sun placed a reassuring hand on Min-Ho's shoulder. "It's not your fault. We were all there together. We can't predict how these things will unfold."

As the hours passed, the atmosphere remained tense. Every update from So-Moon's doctor brought new hope, but the weight of the external pressure loomed heavily over them.

Later that evening, So-Moon was finally able to join his friends in the waiting area. The relief on their faces was palpable. They immediately gathered around him, ready to offer their support.

"How are you feeling?" Ji-Hwan asked, concern etched in his features.

"I'm okay," So-Moon replied, though he still felt the emotional toll of the day weighing on him. "I just... wish things could go back to normal."

"They will," Void said firmly. "But we need to address this head-on. We can't let fear dictate our lives."

As they talked about their plan for a statement, So-Moon felt a flicker of hope. Surrounded by his friends, he realized that even in the face of uncertainty, they would navigate the challenges together. The bond they shared was stronger than any external threat, and he felt grateful for their unwavering support.

Later that night, as they prepared to leave the hospital, the boys made a pact to stand by each other. Together, they would face the media, the hackers, and any obstacles that dared to come their way. In that moment, So-Moon knew he was not alone, and with that knowledge, he felt a renewed sense of strength.

As they exited the hospital, the flashing lights of cameras outside illuminated the night, but the boys walked together, united. The road ahead was uncertain, but they were ready to face it all—together.