SOLITUDE SERIES #3 The microphone felt heavy in Taehyung's hand, a stark contrast to the lightness of his heart two years ago. Back then, Jeongguk's absence was a gaping wound, every corner of their shared apartment echoing his ghost. Now, the newsroom buzzed with excitement, the upcoming engagement announcement a reminder of the life they'd built, now shattered. He'd tried to move on, dating, laughing, but the echoes of Jeongguk's laughter lingered, a constant, painful reminder. He'd met Jeongguk's new girlfriend, a kind, cheerful girl with bright eyes and a smile that mirrored his own. It should have been comforting, but the sight of their intertwined hands sent a fresh wave of grief crashing over him. "Are you ready, Taehyung?" The producer's voice cut through his reverie. The camera light warmed his face, a cruel spotlight on his raw emotions. Taking a deep breath, he plastered a smile on his face, a mask for the turmoil within. "Ready,"he mumbled, his voice a hollow echo of his own. He stepped onto the set, the weight of the microphone a physical manifestation of the burden of his broken heart. He would announce it, with a forced smile and a trembling voice, the engagement of the man who had left him with nothing but the fragments of a shattered love. He would do it because it was his job, but deep down, he knew he would never truly mend the pieces of his broken heart.

Solitude Series #2 Eccedentesiast | (n) Someone who hides pain behind a smile. Depression hits Taehyung like a speed train and they aren't really themselves. Jeongguk Despite knowing this happen often, walks away. - tw: blood, cursing, death of characters, suicide, suicidal thoughts, depression, and self harm. Please if not comfortable with those, read another book. Thank you.