My Landlord

#30

The plane hits turbulence, and the entire cabin jolts forward, startling you. Your body convulses with another wracking sob, and your breaths come in gasping wails. You can't seem to catch your breath, the image of Jungkook in his hospital bed playing on repeat in your mind.

The hours turn into what feels like an eternity, but you don't care about the passage of time. Your tears keep flowing, your heartbreak overflowing like a broken faucet. The tears flow unchecked, trailing down your cheeks and leaving wet, cold trails on your skin. The only thought that occupies your mind is seeing Jungkook, reaching him, holding him, making sure he knows he's not alone in this.

You glance out the window, watching the clouds swirl past in a gray haze. It feels like you're caught in the eye of a storm, both externally and internally. Your entire being aches, yearning for the comfort and familiarity of Jungkook's arms, the warmth of his touch, the deep rumble of his laughter, his smile that can brighten even the darkest day.

You clench your fist around the armrest, gripping it tightly as another sob threatens to break free. You long to feel his presence, his body heat, the way his stubble feels against your cheek, his breath on your skin. Every sensation you've felt in his arms feels like it's a memory, one that's fading into nothingness.

The pilot's voice crackles over the speaker, announcing that the plane is starting its descent into Seoul. You take a deep breath, attempting to catch your breath and still the overwhelming tears. You swipe at your face, leaving wet streaks on your cheeks. The city of Seoul comes into view below you, the skyline shimmering with lights in the early morning darkness.

The plane hits the tarmac, the engines roaring as it taxis to the gate. The sight of the airport brings a fresh surge of adrenaline, the final steps to reaching Jungkook. You stand, taking slow, deliberate breaths, trying to steady your emotions as you gather your things. Your legs feel like jelly, wobbly with anticipation and exhaustion.

Finally, the plane comes to a halt, and the seatbelt sign flickers off. You step out of your seat, your heart pounding like a drum in your chest. Your body feels heavy with tension, every step forward laden with the weight of your thoughts. You make your way through the jetway, your eyes fixed on the entrance to the airport, the portal to reuniting with Jungkook.

After an interminable flight, you finally step out of the airport. The crisp Seoul air cools your skin, but you're too weary to appreciate it. The weight of your grief bears down on you, and the prospect of finding your way to Jungkook feels suddenly impossible.

As you drag your feet along the sidewalk, you pull out your phone and call Taehyung. He answers on the second ring, his worried voice filling your ear.

You explain what happened in a rushed, frenzied burst. "I just need to know which hospital he's in. Can you please find out for me?"

Taehyung's voice is tight with concern as he assures you, "Of course, I'll text you the details."

You pace back and forth on the sidewalk, the ashen sky mirroring your mood. The wait feels interminable, your heart pounding in your chest with impatience. Finally, Taehyung's name flashes across your screen.

You snatch up the phone, pressing it to your ear. "Tae?"

"He's at Seoul National University Hospital. Are you on your way there now?" Taehyung's voice is tight with urgency.

"I will be. I was just trying to find a taxi—" You interrupt yourself, your eyes falling on a cab that's parked at the curb.

Taehyung lets out a relieved sigh. "I'm coming to get you. Don't worry, I'll be there in fifteen minutes."

"No, there's a cab right here—"

You end the call with Taehyung, your heart racing as you spot a taxi parked at the curb. You rush over and slide into the back seat, feeling the weight of your tiny bag pressing against your side. The driver glances at you, surprised that you carry no more than that.