Survival Instinct // Namkook

chapter 8 - a ray of light

Morning light filtered through the cracks and grime of the subway station, casting a muted glow over the remnants of their makeshift camp. The two survivors worked quickly to pack up their few belongings, preparing to navigate the dark, labyrinthine subway tunnels that lay ahead.

Namjoon checked their supplies, ensuring they had everything necessary for the day’s journey. Jungkook, on the other hand, fidgeted anxiously, his gaze darting nervously toward the dark passageways that stretched before them.

“We’ll follow the tunnels and see where they lead,” Namjoon said, his voice calm and authoritative. “We need to stay alert and move quickly.”

Jungkook nodded, attempting to steady his breathing. The thought of walking through the dark, unfamiliar tunnels heightened his anxiety. He was aware of the oppressive gloom surrounding them.

Namjoon retrieved a flashlight from his backpack and switched it on. The beam sliced through the darkness, casting long, jittery shadows on the grim walls. He led the way, the flashlight’s beam providing a small but crucial sense of direction. Jungkook followed closely, his steps hesitant and his eyes shifting nervously in the dark. He couldn’t help but wish he had a flashlight of his own.

As they progressed, the darkness seemed to press in on them from all sides. The flashlight’s beam was a small comfort but did little to alleviate Jungkook’s deep-seated fear. He stumbled occasionally, his anxiety making him jumpy and distracted.

Noticing Jungkook’s mounting distress, Namjoon’s expression softened. He could see the fear in Jungkook’s eyes and noticed the way he clutched his arms tightly, as if trying to hold himself together.

“Here,” Namjoon said, handing the flashlight to Jungkook. “You take it. You scared of the dark?”

Jungkook hesitated for a moment before accepting the flashlight with a grateful nod. The warm glow seemed to provide a measure of comfort, and he gripped it tightly, his hands trembling slightly.

“Thanks,” Jungkook said quietly, a hint of relief in his voice.

Namjoon watched as Jungkook’s demeanor visibly relaxed with the flashlight in his hands. It was a small gesture, but it seemed to make a difference. Namjoon took a step back, letting Jungkook’s light guide their way.

As they continued through the tunnel, Jungkook’s anxiety gradually began to ease. The flashlight’s beam cut through the darkness, illuminating the graffiti-covered walls and the occasional discarded piece of trash. The tunnel was long and winding, but the light made it more bearable. At the same time he did oddly feel quite protected next to Namjoon. He didn't make a move to hurt him in any way since their first encounter and besides his cold demeanour was actually incredibly nice to him all the time.

Namjoon walked in silence, his thoughts heavy with the burden of their situation. He was still wary of Jungkook, unsure of his motives and whether he could be fully trusted. But seeing him like this—nervous, vulnerable—reminded Namjoon of something he had tried to forget.

Jungkook’s fear and dependence on the flashlight evoked memories of Namjoon’s younger brother, who had been similarly frightened when the apocalypse had begun. The thought of his lost brother, and the way he had looked to Namjoon for comfort, was a painful reminder of what he had lost.

Namjoon tried to push those thoughts aside, focusing on the present and the task at hand. They had to stay focused to avoid any potential dangers lurking in the shadows.

“Keep an eye out for anything useful,” Namjoon said, trying to redirect Jungkook’s focus from his fear. “We’re looking for supplies or anything that might help us.”

Jungkook nodded, his grip on the flashlight tightening as he scanned the tunnel ahead. “Got it."

They continued their walk through the subway, the flashlight’s beam creating a small island of safety in the vast expanse of darkness. Jungkook’s breathing slowly became more even, his earlier panic giving way to a cautious determination. He began to search more actively, shining the light on any potential source of supplies.

Despite the dire circumstances, there was a growing sense of camaraderie between them. Namjoon could see the resilience in Jungkook, even if it was hidden behind layers of fear. It was a small but significant sign of hope, a reminder that despite their grim situation, they were not alone in this fight for survival.

The tunnel seemed to stretch on endlessly, but Namjoon remained vigilant, his eyes scanning for any signs of danger. Jungkook’s flashlight flickered, casting strange shapes on the walls, but the beam held steady, guiding them through the darkness.

As they continued, Namjoon felt a growing sense of responsibility toward Jungkook. Despite his reservations and the cautious distance he maintained, he couldn’t ignore the bond that was forming between them. It was a complex mix of trust and wariness, but it was undeniable.

So, they walked ahead through the darkened subway tunnels, their footsteps echoing softly in the confined space.