Echoes of Care

Spaces and Surprises

At Yunhe Hospital, the chief doctors each had their own personal spaces to unwind, recharge, and escape the relentless pace of their jobs. Unlike the junior doctors and nurses, who stayed in dormitories, the chief doctors had dedicated rooms that reflected their personalities.

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Jin and Taehyung’s Shared Room

Jin and Taehyung shared a spacious, minimalistic room with large windows overlooking the city. Jin had taken charge of decorating, opting for warm tones and subtle decor that made the room feel cozy and inviting. A soft, beige sofa sat in the corner, next to a small bookshelf where Jin kept his collection of medical journals and classic novels. 

Taehyung’s side was a bit more eclectic, with a canvas and paints tucked under his desk, evidence of his secret passion for painting. Inside Taehyung’s drawer was a small, treasured photo of him and his family, a small sketchbook, and a stash of unique pens. Jin’s drawer, on the other hand, held his favorite snacks, a few mementos from his travels, and a small journal where he often penned down his thoughts.

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Yoongi and Hoseok’s Shared Room

Yoongi and Hoseok’s room had a more modern, sleek vibe. Black and gray tones dominated, with a few splashes of color from Hoseok’s collection of quirky knick-knacks and Yoongi’s music player. Yoongi had a keyboard on a stand against one wall, something he used to unwind after stressful surgeries.

Yoongi’s drawer was simple, containing some earbuds, a notepad filled with song lyrics, and a small flask of strong coffee. Hoseok’s drawer, in contrast, held a collection of colorful pens, a few energy bars, and a small framed picture of him with his girlfriend, reminding him of the long-distance bond they shared.

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Jungkook and Jimin’s Shared Room

Jungkook and Jimin shared a room with a sleek yet functional design. Jungkook’s side was clean and minimalistic, reflecting his quiet, reserved personality. He had a single small plant on his desk, a gift from his mother, and a stack of medical journals he often read late into the night.

In Jungkook’s drawer were some emergency protein bars, a tiny worn-out notebook with old scribbled thoughts, and a carefully wrapped locket that had belonged to his late sister—a keepsake he rarely looked at but always kept close. Jimin’s drawer, on the other hand, was full of half-empty packets of snacks, a small first-aid kit, and a mini diffuser he used to keep the room lightly scented.

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Namjoon’s Private Space

Namjoon, as a psychiatrist, had a more spacious room with warm lighting and cozy chairs arranged around a low table. His room was designed to be a calming space for both him and his patients. Shelves lined one wall, stacked with psychology textbooks, self-help books, and a few potted plants he took pride in keeping alive. 

Namjoon’s drawer was full of his notes from university, a pack of herbal teas for stressful days, and a stress ball he sometimes tossed in the air while thinking. His space was meticulously organized, a little sanctuary he maintained to ground himself amidst the chaos of the hospital.

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The Cafeteria System

For meals, the doctors and hospital staff typically went to the canteen, where food charges were automatically deducted from their salaries. The Healing Hearts Café on the ground floor was an alternative, though it was more of a treat for special days or quick coffee breaks.

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An Afternoon in Jungkook and Jimin’s Room

After a long surgery that morning, Jungkook returned to his shared room with Jimin, feeling a sense of relief as he stepped into the quiet space. Without wasting a moment, he headed straight for the shower, the hot water washing away the tension from his shoulders.

When he came out, fresh and in a white shirt with the top two buttons undone, he was surprised to see Taehyung slouched on the sofa, looking exhausted, while Jimin sat beside him, scrolling through his phone. Taehyung had his head back, eyes half-closed, and an almost-pout on his lips.

"When did you get here?" Jungkook asked, towel-drying his damp hair as he walked over to his dresser.

“Just a few minutes ago,” Taehyung replied, barely looking up. He seemed to be pestering Jimin about something, a bit of desperation in his voice. “Come on, Jimin, can’t you come with me?”

Jimin shook his head apologetically. “I’ve got important duties here in the evening, Tae. I can’t skip out.”

Taehyung sighed, slumping even further into the couch. Jungkook watched the exchange from the mirror, amused by the obvious frustration on Taehyung’s face, though he kept his expression neutral.

Just then, Jimin turned to Jungkook with a smile. “Hey, Jungkook, are you free this evening?”

Hearing Jimin’s question, Taehyung shot up, eyes wide with sudden interest, looking from Jimin to Jungkook.

“Uh, yeah,” Jungkook replied, combing his fingers through his wet hair. “Why?”

Jimin grinned, glancing over at Taehyung before explaining, “Taehyung here needs to go grocery shopping. Jin hyung gave him a list, but apparently he’s completely lost when it comes to shopping. I thought you could help him out.”

Taehyung looked at Jungkook with a hopeful expression, and Jungkook felt his heart soften, though he only raised an eyebrow. Taehyung wasn’t used to asking for help, but here he was, practically pleading.

Taehyung cleared his throat, his voice softer. “Would you… help me out, Jungkook?”

Jungkook hesitated, looking at Taehyung’s face in the reflection of the mirror. Taehyung was clearly embarrassed to ask, but there was an undeniable spark of excitement in his eyes.

Jungkook sighed, giving a small nod. “Alright.”

Taehyung’s face lit up immediately, his eyes shining. “Really? Thanks, Jungkook!”

Jungkook tried to keep his composure, but the warmth in Taehyung’s gaze made his heart beat a little faster.

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An Evening Out

Later that evening, Jungkook slipped on a white linen shirt, tucked neatly into his black pants. He grabbed his wallet and car keys, glancing over at Taehyung, who was practically bouncing with excitement.

“Let’s go,” Jungkook said, his voice steady, but Taehyung could see the slight smile playing on his lips.

Taehyung followed him to the parking lot, trying to contain his happiness. “I haven’t been grocery shopping in forever,” he confessed as they walked to Jungkook’s car.

Jungkook chuckled, opening the car door for Taehyung. “Yeah, I kind of figured.”

As they drove through the city, Taehyung rambled on about the hospital, about Seoul, and about how he hadn’t been able to explore much since moving. Jungkook listened quietly, nodding occasionally, his gaze focused on the road but with a calm, relaxed expression. He hadn’t felt this comfortable with anyone in a long time.

Finally, they arrived at a large supermarket. Taehyung looked at Jungkook, then at the list Jin had given him, his face slightly scrunched in confusion.

Jungkook took the list from Taehyung’s hand. “Let’s take it one step at a time,” he said calmly, pushing a cart toward Taehyung. “Vegetables first.”

They moved through the aisles, Jungkook occasionally giving Taehyung tips on how to pick out fresh produce. Taehyung listened intently, nodding as he followed Jungkook’s advice.