Fated by 'I Do'

Chapter 21 : Cosy days

Taehyung and Jungkook were back from Daegu, settling into their daily routine life. After Taehyung left for the office, Jungkook decided to go grocery shopping. Not entirely sure about the right quantities for just two people, he consulted ChatGPT to help clear his doubts. With the AI's calculations in mind, he bought everything he needed, paid the bill, and took the grocery bag in hand before starting his walk home.

He was near his area when someone hurriedly pushed past him without so much as a "sorry." Jungkook stumbled, and before he knew it, he was on the ground, feeling the sting of scraped elbows and a tear in his pants near the knee. His groceries were scattered across the road, and he felt an ache of frustration building up inside him. All around, people walked by, barely sparing him a glance. It felt as if no one cared at all, and Jungkook's chest tightened as he fought the urge to cry.

Silently, he began to pick up the groceries, crouching down on the road, focusing on gathering each item one by one. Just then, he heard a familiar voice filled with concern.

"What happened, Jungkook-ah?"

Jungkook looked up to see Yoongi standing there, a look of worry etched on his face. Without waiting for an answer, Yoongi crouched down beside him, taking in Jungkook's bruised elbows and torn pants.

"How did this happen? Oh no! Come, sit here," Yoongi said gently, his tone soft as he assessed the situation. He pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and handed it to Jungkook to press against the small cuts, helping stop the blood. "Here, use this until we get you home."

Jungkook took the handkerchief, feeling a wave of gratitude wash over him. "Thank you, hyung," he whispered, trying to keep his voice steady as he pressed the cloth to his bleeding elbow.

Yoongi gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "It's okay. Let's pick up the rest of these groceries," he said calmly, already gathering the scattered items. As they picked up the bags together, Yoongi couldn't help but notice the sadness in Jungkook's eyes.

"Were you out doing grocery shopping on your own?" Yoongi asked, trying to bring a bit of lightness to the moment.

Jungkook managed a small smile. "Yeah... I wasn't sure how much we'd need, so I used ChatGPT to calculate everything."

Yoongi chuckled softly. "Of course you did. That's clever, though. You're really thorough, Jungkook-ah. But remember, you can always call me if you need help. You don't have to do it all alone."

Jungkook's cheeks flushed slightly as he looked down, feeling a bit embarrassed yet comforted. "Thanks, hyung. I just didn't want to bother anyone..."

Yoongi shook his head, giving him a gentle look. "You're never a bother. You're family, Jungkook. We look out for each other."

Jungkook felt his heart warm at Yoongi's words, his initial frustration beginning to melt away. "I don't know what I'd do without you, Yoongi-hyung. Thank you... really."

Yoongi's expression softened even more. "No need to thank me. Let's get you home now and clean up those scrapes properly."

Jungkook nodded, feeling grateful as Yoongi helped him to his feet, carrying most of the groceries to make it easier for him. As they walked back together, the warmth of Yoongi's support made him feel a little lighter.

They reached home to find Taehyung pacing restlessly outside the apartment, his brows furrowed, phone in hand as he tried Jungkook's number for what seemed like the hundredth time. Taehyung had come back to grab a file he'd forgotten, only to find the door locked. He was beginning to worry, wondering why Jungkook hadn't answered or told him where he'd gone.

Just as he ran a hand through his hair in frustration, Yoongi called out, "Taehyung-ah, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at the office right now?"