---°•°---

The following day was a tad distinct from the previous day. Not even six of the clock in the morning, Sun woke up and glanced around, as if checking if she was still on her bed.

She had just experienced a vivid dream involving herself and Jimin, and she couldn't help but chuckle at the memory. 

After a refreshing shower, she felt a sense of contentment wash over her. Her life was full of love, from her family and friends to the exciting prospect of marrying the person she cherished. 

As she went about her day, she could not help but wonder if she was truly suitable for Yoongi, her soon-to-be husband, and these thoughts consumed her mind as she attempted to keep herself occupied.

Meanwhile, her older brother, Jin, was already up, a rare occurrence for her. As Sun entered his room, she couldn't help but admire the sight of him absorbed in a cookbook, his brow furrowed in concentration.

Despite not having any romantic feelings towards women, Jin found himself the subject of curiosity among them. Women drew him in because of their ability to navigate emotions without harming others.

As the anticipation for the upcoming wedding grew, the air was filled with excitement, dreams, and a hint of uncertainty about what the future might hold.

Jin was pondering what to present to his beloved sister as a wedding gift. The news of her impending marriage filled him with even greater excitement. 

The fact that his sister was marrying the person she adored brought immense satisfaction and solace to his heart. Their mother had always emphasized that her hard work and benevolent nature would yield the best outcomes in life. 

As she entered the room, he noticed how radiant she looked for just waking up, though the puffiness in her cheeks revealed how much she had eaten the day before, causing him to chuckle with delight.

He giggled and planted a swift kiss on her forehead, causing her to wrinkle her nose playfully, resembling a tiny bunny.

"Good morning, oppa!" she exclaimed, a radiant smile illuminating her face.

She was acutely aware that this day was exclusively theirs, and she was determined to savor every precious moment. As his lips brushed against her forehead, a wave of contentment washed over her.

"Hey, sweetheart, you are up this early? Couldn't you manage to sleep a little more?" he inquired, his gaze lingering on her face, taking in the gentle curves, the beautiful caramel complexion with those freckles that rested peacefully.

Jin offered a gentle squeeze to her shoulder as she shook her head in negation. 

She hummed in delight. The touch made her drowsy, which Sun attributed to the fact that she had awoken at such an early hour or to the sheer pleasure of being in her brother's room after so long.

The familiar scent of the room was undeniably comforting. 

Yet, nothing could truly compare to the room of her younger brother, Jungkook. 

The ethereal fragrance of his room – a delicate blend of mint and ocean spray. The mere thought of it evoked a blissful smile. 

That is pure heaven. 

Returning her attention to her elder brother, Sun posed a question, "But why are you up so early?" Gently, he adjusted her position on the bed, creating a more comfortable space for her.

As they sat side by side on the bed, anticipation grew within her. "I'm orchestrating a surprise for you," he revealed, tossing a pillow towards her.

With a silent invitation, he closed the distance between them. They embraced warmly, the comforting warmth of their bodies brings a familiar solace to them. Her lips formed a small pout as she began, "Oppa..." 

He understood her reaction perfectly. She was always hesitant to accept her brothers' generosity. Despite her feigned disapproval of surprises, he knew better than to fall for her alluring tactics.

Internally, she struggled with the desire to have a keepsake for her upcoming marriage. While her usual aversion to gifts persisted, the impending wedding made her crave something tangible to treasure in her new home.

Resolving to maintain her silence, she nestled her face against his chest, inhaling deeply as his gentle hand caressed her temple. It was a silent expression of gratitude.

The book was long forgotten.

Jin's breath caught in his throat. His sister's peaceful slumber in his arms filled him with an overwhelming sense of contentment. He resisted the urge to speak, but Sun-hi's voice broke the stillness.

"I must have done some extraordinary acts of kindness in a previous life," she murmured, her voice heavy with emotion. Her eyes glistened, and her vision blurred. Jin watched her as his heart aches for her. 

"Indeed, you must have," he affirmed, his voice carrying a gentle certainty. "And darling, you, too, are weaving goodness into this life too. You know how deeply we cherish you for the extraordinary soul you are, Sun-hi. I was thinking about this very thing just before you entered my room." 

He started to breathe heavily as he got ready to say something to her that he had never really said before.

Speaking his mind was challenging to some extent, even though his siblings are aware of his attraction towards Namjoon. 

On the other hand, her heart swelled with poignant warmth as she realized the depth of their affection and boundless pride for her.

And, without a doubt, she had sown seeds of kindness in her previous life, for which the universe had rewarded her with a family as beautiful as a sunrise.

Nature had given her a tender heart, an endless wellspring of love. For this, she was eternally grateful.

His heart eventually settled, and with a light pat on her head, he resumed, "You know, I have never felt a spark for women."

His confession was clear, and his voice remained calm. She nodded, her understanding as silent as the moonlit sea. It mattered not to her who captured his heart; their love for him was unconditional.

In sharp contrast to the prejudices of the outside world, their family provides a safe haven for their children.

Jin's lips curved into a soft smile; she was behaving like an older sister right now.

"But that changes nothing when I think of you and Mother. You are my world, my everything, Sun-hi. I craved the sight of your faces each morning before I start my day. Do you know why?"

His question was a playful challenge, and she met it with a matching grin. "Because we're your lucky charms?"

A mischievous glint appeared in his eyes. "Bingo!" he exclaimed, mimicking a gunshot and firing an imaginary heart at her.

Laughter filled the room, making the environment warm and cozy. 

He opened his arms, inviting her back into the haven of his embrace. Without hesitation, she melted into his warmth. His arms tightened around her, and she could feel the steady rhythm of his heart, a comforting drumbeat against her ear. 

She buried her face into his chest, her arms tightly wrapped around his waist. 

Because of his broad shoulders, she couldn't quite encircle him completely, and her small struggles made Jin giggle.

"You're not just my lucky charm, Sun-hi," he murmured, his voice filled with tender reverence. "You are my earth. You keep me grounded, reminding me of the precious souls I must protect at all costs. You are strong and diligent, yet as delicate as a flower. You are my cherished sister, my ultimate sunshine." 

They talked a lot about their childhood, when they were cradled in their parents' loving arms. Their conversation was a delicate blend of quiet contemplation and playful banter. 

However, an underlying longing for Jungkook tugged at their hearts.

Though there was a strong desire to call him in for private moments, their plans were thwarted by a prompt interruption.

El, their maid, knocked on Jin's room door.

Their gaze was already drawn to the window, where their pup who was waggling his tail and doing a happy dance when butterflies were trying to sit on the flower tiara that adorned his head. 

An oh-so gorgeous sight.

Oblivious to El's initial knock, she tried again, finally capturing their attention. "Young master... Ah, miss, you're here as well?" Her face was etched with a welcoming smile as she invited them for breakfast.

Sun's wristwatch confirmed it's already eight. 

A testament to their lengthy conversation.

"Aajumma, we are coming," Jin replied respectfully, gracefully dismissing her for the time being. As El retreated to the kitchen, their intimate exchange resumed.

"Do you recall, darling, when you were a little baby, you used to hide behind my legs, scared of the big world. I teased you too, calling you my little shadow baby," Jin teased, his fingers gently pinching her caramel cheeks, leaving a rosy tint.

A playful pout graced her lips as she retorted, "Oh, I know. You were such a bully, oppa."

His amusement glistened in his eyes. With a flex of his bicep, he tugged on the pink t-shirt, revealing a hint of muscle. "But I was your protector too. Do you recall how I protected you from those tiny butterflies?"

Sun laughed and skillfully put the cloth back where it belonged. "Mmm, hmm. I know every single one of your secrets. You've never failed to protect me my best brother."

A dark cloud briefly covered Jin's brow as a painful memory flashed to mind. He has not forgotten the staircase accident. Sun was oblivious to the silent turmoil because she was preoccupied with the intricate task of threading her attire. 

Jin took a breath, he did not want to spoil this happy occasion. This day needs to end well, with all of these happy memories. 

"Perhaps," he began, his voice light, "but while I was your protector, I also witnessed your transformation.  Look at you now, all set to conquer the world with your prince charming. Hm? It’s so surreal. Right, baby?" 

Sun's breath quickened at the mention of Yoongi. Her fingers remained still, her cheeks were blazing red. 

"Mmmmm. I can't believe it. It feels like a dream."

It does feel like a dream for her. 

And even if it is a dream, she does not want to wake up from it. 

Because everyone is pleased with the circumstances.

Jin intertwined their hands, his expression softening as he realized her small fists had vanished within his larger ones. To be honest, she was not small; the problem was Jin himself. He is a giant!

"Dreams do come true darling, don't they? And when my cherished sister dreams, reality has to bends to her will no matter what. " She listened to the foolish conversations with a shy smile on her lips. 

"Yet, remember, baby," his tone became serious, but the underlying tenderness never faded, "This is a new chapter, not a final page. Marriage is a delicate dance in which both partners must take the lead." Her eyes grew wider as she reflected on his profound words. 

"I understand, oppa, but the fear haunts me. What would happen if I unintentionally caused harm to someone? Jin's eyes flickered with vulnerability, fighting silently against his own tears. 

Sun could tell Jin was struggling, attempting to stay grounded but slipping. 

"Darling, fear follows people everywhere. Its okay to get scared, this is a big step. It is terrifying, without a doubt. And let me assure you, sweetie—I have seen you, and you can never, ever hurt someone. Remember that you are never alone. We stand by you. And I know you will be an incredible wife. Your selflessness has always been your defining quality."

Tears streamed down her cheeks in silent response to his words. Thank you. Thank you so much, oppa."

"Oh, you are weeping again, my sweet," he cooed, pulling her into a comforting embrace. "Your big brother will always be your unwavering support." His gentle strokes soothed her sobs.

"Mumma mentioned the same thing," she muttered, her voice buried in his chest. Jin smiled, acknowledging everyone's admiration for his sister.

He gently rocked her while his heart ached. How could he bear letting go of his baby sister? Who would be laughing alongside Jungkook? Where could he find her contagious giggle? And again tears threatened to fall once more from his eyes. 

He had to calm himself down before their mother became alarmed. If their mother finds out that they were crying, they will be scolded. "Hey, shush now," he pleaded, his voice filled with emotion. She clutched him tighter, not wanting to let go even for a single second.

He recognized the storm raging inside her. 

"This is a time for celebration, darling. But know this," he laughed, "the young girl who used to hide behind my legs has grown into a woman I look up to. You have transformed into a remarkable entity."

"Mmmmm, " She whined loudly, head shaking almost digging hole into him. 

The tears were preventing her from breathing properly, and the situation was making it difficult for her to let her precious brother go from her embrace. "Please, please, please, just. . . .stopph." 

"There, there, my love," he reassured her, gently patting her head and giggling uncontrollably at the most adorable sister. He looked around the room, feeling the passage of time, experiencing many emotions at once; he will never forget this moment. Is this how a brother feels when his sister gets married? 

This sensation is both pleasant and frightening. 

He would not allow anyone to hurt her; not even a scratch could touch her body. He decided that he needed to talk with Yoongi about this. This is a serious matter. Of course, the goal is not to scare the poor boy.

Moments passed, and their breathing gradually returned to normal. He gently detached himself and looked at her reddened nose, which elicited a new wave of laughter. 

"Seriously though, I'm immensely proud of you. More than words could express." She nodded, her spirit temporarily calmed. With a gentle kiss on her forehead, he sealed his promise of eternal protection. 

A brother's love promises her wings of protection.

They were almost running out of Jin's room because they were late for breakfast. Oh goodness Jungkook is going to be sulking so bad. Sun's hand was entwined with Jin's as he urged her to pick up the pace, she laughs in response to his playful antics.

As they approached the staircase, their momentum faltered. Jin paused their descent, his hands carefully guiding her down the stairs. 

As they were about to enter the dining area, she clutched his hand, her eyes seeking his attention. "What is it?" he inquired, curiosity piqued.

"Oppa, can you hear Kookie?" she questioned, her gaze expectant. Jin pondered the silence, a shared confusion settling over them. “Perhaps he's sulking? Let's investigate,” he suggested.

Sun chuckled as they stepped into the room, their eyebrows furrowing in unison at the absence of their brother. Their parents, seated at the table, turned towards the sound of their entrance. They stood in front of their parents, hands clasped I .

Sora stepped forward, her gaze filled with concern. “Oh, my darlings, have you been crying?” Her hands embraced their shoulders, providing comfort.

"Mother, we're fine," Jin assured her, his voice steady. Sun nodded, her hand gently stroking her mother’s in reassurance. Sora's eyes glistened with a silent understanding as she met her husband's sympathetic gaze.

"Mumma, where is Kookie?" Sun-hi questioned. Jin repeated the question, his voice tinged with worry.

"I know he's going to be sulky all day. He hasn’t even seen Sun-hi yet. This will be a disaster," he predicted, his voice rising in mock exasperation. Sun laughed, her infectious laughter matching his.

Their parents exchanged a tender smile, acknowledging the fleeting nature of their experiences. Their three children were their world, and the impending separation from Sun-hi was casting a shadow over their happiness.

Mr. Kim hesitated before responding, his voice soft. "He's at the gym again."

Sun-hi entered the gym, her gaze locked on the figure relentlessly pounding the punching bag. He no longer possessed the softness that defined him. He stood rigid, his actions charged with raw aggression, in sharp contrast to his usual demeanor.

Her father's words echoed in her mind, his voice filled with despair: "He is at the gym again." A forced smile spread across his face as he attempted to conceal the turmoil within.

Jin, her brother, inquired with feigned curiosity, "Again, Father? What are you talking about?" Though his voice pretended to be ignorant, his eyes revealed a deeper understanding. He uttered a silent prayer, hoping his fears were unfounded.

Sora, their mother, broke the fragile silence with a concerned voice, "It is starting again. He is isolated himself."

Sun-hi closed her eyes, her breath hitching in her throat. 

Jungkook is the life of their mansion, the boy whose laughter once filled their home with joy, was now a distant memory. The once vibrant Jungkook, with eyes as deep and dark as boba balls, had been irrevocably changed by the accident.

She recalled Jungkook's carefree days, when he enjoyed the simplest pleasures. His laughter had been infectious as he played with a lifelike turtle toy in the pool, creating a miniature storm of splashes. The maids, who adored him, had willingly joined in his aquatic fun, their genuine joy was mirroring his own.

Jungkook had always been a bundle of energy, craving attention from his family. However, he understood the demands of their lives, particularly his father's.

He understands that his father must go to work, which means he cannot spend time with Jungoo. He understands everything like a good boy.

His mother's absence today, however, had cast a shadow over his world. The increased number of maids, meant to provide extra care, only amplified his loneliness.

As the afternoon wore on, Jungkook's cheerful demeanor began to fade. The once bright eyes now held a hint of fear. Unable to contain his emotions, tears rolled down his cheeks. He clutched his Koya, a comforting gesture learned from his sister, seeking solace in the familiar object. "Aajum-ma."

A young maid approached him, her voice gentle but trembling. "Young master, what's wrong? Would you like your favorite dessert?" Her words were laced with concern, for she sensed the child's growing despair.

Jungkook shook his head, his tiny frame trembling. The absence of his siblings, coupled with the weight of his loneliness, was overwhelming.

"Mum. . . " He sniffles, "Noona. . . Hyun. Why. . . W-Why not here-e?"

The phone's shrill ring cut through the quietude. With a determined effort, Jungkook pushed himself off the sofa and stumbled towards the sound, eager to answer. The familiar voice of his mother crackled through the receiver, "Mr. Lee is coming to pick up Jungkook. Get him ready, El."

A wave of joy washed over him. He would see his siblings! The tears that had been threatening to fall retreated, replaced by a hopeful sparkle in his eyes. Although he yearned to respond, the call ended abruptly.

Jungkook was soon taken away by his favorite uncle and his trusted maid. The familiar surroundings of their home transformed into the sterile, cold environment of a hospital in the blink of an eye. 

His mother enveloped him in a tight embrace, her tears mingling with his scent. To his surprise, his father was also there, his strong arms providing comfort as Jungkook sought refuge in his embrace.

He saw the situation, everyone was crying, his mind was in distress too, the biggest question was where is noona and jin hyung. 

He didn't question anything. His mind didn't let him. 

But he knows what he felt at that time. 

Alone and scared. 

Little Jungkook cried the moment he looked at the sight that unfolded before him was a stark contrast to the playful world he knew.

His sister and brother lay motionless, their bodies connected to a maze of tubes and wires. Bloodstains marred their clothes, more on noona's clothes, a haunting echo of the water he'd splashed so joyfully earlier that day.

Is my noona dead? 

Is Hyung dead as well?

Terror gripped Jungkook as he realized the gravity of the situation. Where were his sister and brother?

Who would buy him gems? He wants noona to cuddle him.

Who would share laughter and water fights?

The promises of eternal companionship seemed shattered, replaced by an overwhelming sense of loneliness.

Overwhelmed by the weight of his emotions, Jungkook's world went dark as he passed out.

Jungkook found the gym to be a lonely place. The rhythmic thud of his fists against the heavy bag was a desperate plea for relief. Sweat glistened on his skin, a stark contrast to the turmoil raging within him.

Sun watched, her heart pounding, as he transformed his physical pain into a cathartic expression.

Sun approached cautiously, keeping her steps as quiet as possible; she simply could not take it anymore.

There would be no interruptions because there were no maids nearby. All were dismissed by Jungkook, who was relentlessly punching the bag.

A voice echoed in the room, gentle as a feather, almost whispering. "Jungkook," she said, her voice carrying a soothing warmth.

His movements halted abruptly, his body stiffening like a taut bow. Like a deer caught in the light, but he didn't move. Though she could see how he was breathing heavily from the intense workout.

She called her brother again, this time pleading, "N-Noona is here, Jungkook." Could you please look at me? Please."

His eyes blinked twice at the vulnerability of the voice, which was deep black but brimming with emotion. Then he turned, his eyes welling up with tears. His soul was laid bare in his gaze, a stark contrast to his usual confident demeanour.

She tried to stop herself from running and tightly hugging her brother until he calmed down but she stopped, the first time trying not to cry when he was crying and wanted nothing but her warmth.

She chose not to cry for him.

But she did not expect him to turn around and start punching the punching bag again, and she realized for the first time how serious the situation had become. She gulped deeply when all she could see was her brother sniffling in sadness, not trying to be loud but crying.

"Don't you wanna. . . talk to noona?"

After witnessing the aggressive punching, she licked her lips to wet them and speak more clearly.

In response, she received a shake of the head and a murmur, "No!" And she knew her little brother was trying to sound harsh.

"B-But your noona wanna talk, baby." She tried once more.

This time, Jungkook's demeanor cracked, but he remained motionless. He simply listened, and she noticed his right hand reaching forward to wipe his falling tears.

She looked up and fanned herself with her right hand to relieve the wetness; she could not break at this point.

No she couldn't.

The person who would always come into her room and cry, revealing his vulnerability because he knew how strong his sister was.

"Can you be a good boy for noona and look at her for o-once?"

The sniffles. God!

Oh she couldn't bear those sniffles anymore.

"Please, I know Jungkook. I am completely aware of everything. Talk to noona. Do not shut me out. Noona doesn't want to see Jungkook in this state baby. Look at me please. Noona really wanna see you."

In Jungkook's mind, she was a strong, powerful, and kind woman who knew how to communicate when necessary.

Jungkook wanted to be like her, who was an exact replica of their mother. But knowing the reason for her crying was him, was unsettling for him.

Things were getting unbearable now, a sob escaped his lips, a raw, guttural sound that shattered the silence. His body shook uncontrollably, his emotions overwhelming him, and so Sun ran forward and hugged her brother sideways.

Patting his head non-stop with her right hand, cooing gently she whispered, "It's okay. I took that step you wanted to take."

With that Jungkook's body went limp and due to how heavy he was they stumbled but sat down with a thud and so he cried, now exhausted because of how much he was trying to stop himself from crying.

She knew.

She understood how hard it was.

Hard for little Jungkook to stop thinking about the future.

His mind circulated itself in branches of emotions and as Jimin hyung said it felt like he was in a dark endless tunnel, where there was no where to go other than thinking.

What if something similar occurred at Jimin's hyung's house? What would he do then?

He would be incapable of protecting his noona.

Jimin Hyung did question him about why he spent so much time in the gym when he was only twenty years old. Why did not he spend his free time playing with his friends?

He never responded to them. He was aware of the reason, however.

He desired to be strong.

Strong for his family. Strong for his hyung, Noona, mother and father.

To protect them.

"Noona is here, don't worry. I'm going to make everything right." He heard her gentle voice again, and the sensations in her hands returned: "I told you right when it was unbearable, Noona would do the rest? I will always do it for you baby." and there left her first sob after trying hard not to let go.

When the crying baby clutched her left hand tightly, hugging her hard, she whimpered at his condition.

Please don't cry.

He pleaded in silence. His heart ached at the sight of her tears.

Why are you crying? Don't cry please! I'm sorry for giving you hard time. I'm sorry I'm always like this to you. He managed to say, his voice thick with emotion, but all he did was cry in her arms and nothing comes out.

Without missing a beat, he gently removed his right hand and hugged her entire frame, attempting to be as close as possible. He had no idea what the future would hold. He tried not to crush her as always. And her hands didn't stop threading his hairs for consolation as she let him do whatever he wanted.

She was sniffling but did not completely break down, possibly because she knew her brother needed him, "Shhh, baby." Do not bother thinking. Noona is here. Stop crying it's not good for your heath. You're gonna get a headache at this rate."

And so he whined like a baby, digging his head in her neck, tears wetting the area as well. He wasn't letting her go, not that she was complaining.

She did, however, chuckle at her and Jungkook's similar behavior when they refused to let go of someone while hugging.

They whined.

Oh god. The similarities.

The mood was somewhat calmed now, and the train of thoughts in Jungkook's mind were calming down, so she teased weakly, a feeble attempt to make her brother laugh but she failed,

"Aww, noona will cry for you, hm?" and all left was a cute grumble from Jungkook.

Sun-hi chuckled softly at her baby, "Noona can't see her koo like this. That's why. I wasn't making fun of you. Noona will never do this for her bunny," she said, her voice filled with love and reassurance.

When everything was totally calmed, "Let's talk," she suggested, her voice steady, a lifeline in the storm.

They retreated to a quiet corner after they separated with a smile.

They giggled at each other's red nose. When they sat down on the sofa, a pout settled on Jungkook's lips, Sun reached out, her hand finding his, a silent promise of support. 

"I know this is unbearable, Jungkook. More than anyone can't imagine. But remember, you’re not alone in this darkness. I’m here, always as I said."

He looked everywhere but in her eyes, but nonetheless nodded in understanding. He just didn't wanna start crying again.

They sat in a poignant silence, their shared grief a silent language between them. In that moment, the walls between them crumbled, revealing the depth of their bond. Sun felt a surge of protectiveness, a fierce determination to shield him from the pain.

Sun looked at her baby brother, his face etched with exhaustion and sorrow.

However, she noticed a glint of resilience in the depths of his eyes, a testament to the strength she was aware he possessed.

---°•°---