Till I Crash & Burn

Breaking Point

(TW // Bullying & Violence - Trigger Warning is up because there's a sensitive scene in this chapter that includes bullying and violence. It may be triggering for some readers. Please read responsibly!)

The next day at the hospital, Jackson was discharged with Mark by his side. They stood in the private lobby, the quiet hum of hospital activity muffled by the thick walls. The sleek floor glistened under the soft lighting as they slowly made their way toward the parking lot. Jackson and Mark's managers had gone to finalize the discharge papers, leaving the two to wait near the exit.

Moments later, Jaebeom and Jinyoung arrived, worry etched into their faces. Jaebeom's brows knitted together in concern, while Jinyoung's sharp eyes darted between Jackson and Mark, assessing their condition.

"What happened? Are you both okay? We came as soon as we heard." Jaebeom asked eagerly, his tone laced with urgency.

Jinyoung's gaze lingered, relief flashing briefly when he noticed neither of them were on crutches or in obvious pain.

"We're fine," Mark replied flatly, his voice calm but tired.

"My car isn't," Jackson muttered with a hint of bitterness, running a hand through his tousled hair. "But yeah, we're fine. I just need to rest."

Jaebeom let out a small breath of relief, but his shoulders remained tense. "What happened, though?"

"It's Paul," Mark said quietly, the weight of the name hanging in the air.

"What?" Jinyoung's eyes widened in surprise, his usually composed demeanor slipping. "Are you sure?"

"Wait... what do you mean, Paul? As in Paul Ahn?" Jackson's expression twisted in disbelief, the realization hitting him like a cold wave.

"We'll explain everything on the way," Jinyoung cut in firmly, his voice steady but urgent. "Let's go back to my place instead. It's more secure."

Jaebeom immediately pulled out his phone, sending a quick message to their managers to inform them of the change in plans.

***

"I'm breaking up with you."

It's like she can hear her heart physically shatter from the phone call.

The words sliced through the air like a dagger, sharp and cold. Rosie froze, her heart pounding so violently she could feel it in her throat.

"B-baby? W-what do you mean? Why? Did I do something?" She searched for her words, stammering as they go, broken by hiccupping breaths.

Just minutes ago, she'd been sitting cross-legged on her bed, penning lyrics that made her think of him. Now, his voice delivered a blow she couldn't comprehend.

There was silence on the other end, then his voice came back, cruel, and distant.

"Did you do something? Rosie, I've been putting up with your neediness for years. I'm tired of it. Tired of you constantly asking where I am, what I'm doing. It's suffocating!"

Her breath hitched as confusion mixed with despair. What was she supposed to do? She misses him. She just wants to know where he was. Was that so wrong?

"Baby please. Let's talk about this. I just miss you that's all." Her voice cracked, pleading.

"Miss me? That's all you ever do-cling to me! I can't breathe, Rosie. I'm done."