21: The Chaos Within

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The others nodded in agreement, and for the first time in what felt like forever, Taehyung felt a sense of peace wash over him. The burden he had carried for so long was beginning to lift, replaced by the warmth of the people around him who truly cared about him. It was something he hadn't realized he needed until now.

"Well, now that the drama is over," Namjoon said, clapping his hands together, "how about we celebrate? I think we could all use a break after that."

"I second that!" Hoseok chimed in, his usual bright smile returning. "And I'm starving! Let's order a feast!"

The atmosphere lightened as everyone started discussing what they should eat, laughing and joking as if the events of the last hour hadn't happened. Even Yoongi seemed more relaxed, his usual brooding expression softened by the camaraderie around him.

Jungkook pulled Taehyung aside as the others began debating the best takeout options. "Hey, I just wanted to say... you did good back there. Standing up to the Duke like that—it wasn't easy, but you handled it with strength."

Taehyung gave Jungkook a grateful nod. "Thanks, Jungkook. I don't know if I could have done it without you guys. You've all helped me see that I'm not the person I used to be, and that means a lot."

Jungkook grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "We've all got each other's backs. That's what family does."

As the two of them rejoined the group, Y/n handed Taehyung a plate of food. "Here, you look like you could use this."

Taehyung took the plate, smiling at her. "Thanks, Y/n. You've always been so kind to me, even when I didn't deserve it."

"You've always deserved kindness, Taehyung," Y/n said softly. "You just didn't see it in yourself. But now you're starting to, and that's what matters."

Taehyung nodded, feeling a swell of emotion in his chest. For the first time in a long while, he felt like he belonged—like he had a place where he was truly accepted for who he was.

As the group continued to eat and laugh, the room was filled with a sense of joy and togetherness. Even the Magic Mirror, now back to being an ordinary TV, seemed to watch over them with a silent approval.

But as the night wore on, Taehyung couldn't help but think about the wish he had made and the consequences the Magic Mirror had warned about. The uncertainty lingered in the back of his mind, a small shadow on an otherwise perfect evening.

Later, when everyone had settled down after the meal, Y/n noticed Taehyung staring out the window, lost in thought. She approached him quietly, not wanting to startle him. "What are you thinking about?"

Taehyung looked at her and smiled, though it didn't quite reach his eyes. "I was just thinking about what the Magic Mirror said. About the wish I made... and the consequences."

Y/n nodded, understanding his concern. "We don't know what's going to happen, but whatever it is, we'll face it together. You're not alone in this, Taehyung."

Taehyung sighed, leaning against the window frame. "I know. I just hope that whatever the price is, it's something we can handle. I don't want anyone else to get hurt because of me."

"We've been through a lot already," Y/n said reassuringly. "And we've come out stronger every time. Whatever comes next, we'll deal with it like we always do."

Her words were comforting, and Taehyung felt some of the tension ease from his shoulders. "Thank you, Y/n. You always know what to say to make me feel better."

Y/n smiled at him, her eyes filled with warmth. "That's what friends are for, right?"

Before Taehyung could respond, the door to the room suddenly burst open, and everyone turned in surprise. Standing in the doorway was an unfamiliar figure, their silhouette backlit by the hallway lights.

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