Phantom Legion

CHAPTER 28: BETWEEN LAUGHTER AND TEARS

Team Bangtan had been granted a much-needed month off by Chief Bang, a rare opportunity for rest and recovery. During this time, they dedicated themselves to pampering Hoseok in every way imaginable. The injured agent had returned to the dorms after his recovery, but his mobility remained limited; he was still barred from moving around much. Although he appreciated their kindness, a week into this relentless pampering, Hoseok found himself on the verge of frustration. He sighed deeply as yet another knock echoed from the door—this was the third one in the last half-hour alone.

Jungkook poked his head inside, his characteristic bunny smile brightening the dim room. The sight of his beaming face momentarily diffused Hoseok's irritation. Swallowing his annoyance, he forced a smile, softening his expression. "Hey, Kook!"

The youngest's grin widened, illuminating the room with an infectious energy. "Hey, Hyung! We're going to watch a movie. Would you like to join us?"

Hoseok hesitated for a moment, glancing around his small, cluttered room. He was still adjusting to the stillness, the silence that had become a backdrop to his recovery. Yet, the warmth in Jungkook's eyes was inviting, and he nodded. "Yeah, sure."

As he began to rise from his bed, Jungkook rushed inside, practically bouncing on his feet, eager to help him up. Hoseok knew he could manage on his own, but the maknae's enthusiasm was infectious. He allowed Jungkook to assist him, leaning on the younger agent for support as he made his way out of the room and into the hallway.

When they reached the living room, the sight that greeted them was heartwarming. The other members were gathered on the carpet, their laughter filling the space with life. Jimin immediately sprang to his feet, rushing over to lend a hand. "Hyung!" he exclaimed, a mix of concern and excitement in his voice. Hoseok couldn't suppress the sigh that bubbled up inside him. While the attention was overwhelming, it was also comforting to know how much they cared.

"Hey, Hobi! Are you sure you're comfortable?" Jin called out from his corner of the room, a worried frown creasing his forehead. "I told them to let you rest, but they wouldn't listen."

Hoseok shook his head, dismissing Jin's concern. "I'm fine, Hyung. It was getting boring in my room anyway."

Jin studied him for a moment longer, the lines of worry still etched on his face, but he relented, allowing Hoseok to be part of the gathering. As Jimin helped him sit, Jungkook and Taehyung quickly settled down beside him, their energy radiating warmth. The laughter continued, an easy flow of banter and camaraderie. Jimin began playfully bickering with the two maknaes, claiming he wanted to be the one sitting next to his Hobi Hyung, a lightheartedness that felt like a balm to Hoseok's heart.

As he sank into the cozy embrace of their presence, Hoseok felt a warmth spread through his chest. Each playful shove, each teasing remark from his friends, was a reminder of how much they cared for him. Despite the overwhelming nature of their constant attention, it made him realize he was loved — and that was all he truly needed. With them around, he felt safe.

Once everyone settled down and the movie began to play, Hoseok looked around and noticed that Namjoon was absent. The realization struck him with a pang of confusion. He couldn't recall seeing their newest member throughout the week. Namjoon had not once come to check on him.

He wrestled with his feelings about Namjoon, the conflict of admiration and frustration swirling within him. On one hand, he remembered Namjoon's reckless bravery that had put him in harm's way, but on the other hand, there were moments when Namjoon had fought tooth and nail to keep him safe. It was a complicated blend of emotions that left him unsettled.

As the movie flickered to life on the screen, a cheesy rom-com that Hoseok was certain was Jimin's choice, he allowed himself to lean against Taehyung's shoulder. The warmth of Taehyung's body and the gentle hum of the laughter around him slowly pulled him away from his thoughts. The movie played on, the laughter of his friends surrounding him like a comforting blanket. Hoseok decided to put thoughts of Namjoon aside for now, choosing instead to focus on the vibrant life unfolding around him.