Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The air in the exclusive lounge was thick with anticipation, a cocktail of nervous energy and whispered conversations. Siwan, usually composed and charming, shifted slightly, his gaze fixed on Daesung. The room hummed with the low thrum of a private party, a gathering hosted by the legendary Lee Byung Hyun, a man whose influence rippled through the Korean entertainment industry.

"Daesung-ah," Siwan said, his voice unusually hushed. "TOP-sunbaenim also here."

The words, seemingly simple, landed in the room like a small grenade. Daesung’s head snapped up, his eyes widening. He exchanged a look with Taeyang and Jiyoung, a silent communication passing between them. The years of separation, the solo careers, the controversies, all seemed to melt away in that shared glance. A flicker of hope, hesitant and fragile, ignited in their eyes.

TOP. Choi Seunghyun. Their hyung.

The possibility, however remote, that he was present, that they could see him, speak to him, even if only for a moment, was almost overwhelming. Lee Byung Hyun, a figure they all respected immensely, had always held a special affection for Seunghyun. He was a mentor, a father figure in many ways, who saw beyond the celebrity persona. The thought that Byung Hyun had invited him, that he was here, offered a fragile lifeline to a past they desperately missed.

Lee Jung Jae, standing nearby and observing the subtle shift in the atmosphere, spoke softly, his voice laced with understanding. "He's in a private place. Byung Hyun-hyung wants him to be comfortable, where he won't be overwhelmed."

His words were a reassurance, a gentle buffer against the rising tide of hope. They understood. Seunghyun, even after all this time, was still navigating his own path, his own struggles. The idea of being thrust back into the spotlight, of facing the scrutiny that inevitably followed Bigbang, was likely a daunting prospect.

Meanwhile, in a secluded corner of the sprawling venue, Seunghyun sat hunched over, his face buried in his hands. The low hum of the party outside felt like a relentless pressure on his skull. He had agreed to attend this event, a personal invitation from Lee Byung Hyun himself. He had told himself he was okay, that he could handle it. He wanted to support Byung Hyun-hyung, to show his gratitude for the constant support and unwavering belief in him.

But now, surrounded by the unspoken expectation, the suffocating layers of social obligation, he felt trapped. Lee Byung Hyun had assured him that he could remain in this private area, that he wouldn't be forced to interact with anyone he didn't want to. Yet, the anxiety gnawed at him, the fear of being recognized, of causing a scene, of reliving the past.

He ran his hands through his already disheveled hair, a wave of regret washing over him. Why had he come? He should have stayed home, hidden away in his studio, surrounded by the familiar comfort of his art.

Suddenly, a hand gently touched his arm. He recoiled in shock, his head snapping up.

Standing before him were three faces he hadn't seen, not like this, in what felt like an eternity: Taeyang, Jiyoung, and Daesung.

Time seemed to freeze. The noise of the party faded into a distant hum. The years of separation, the individual trajectories, the weight of expectation, all dissolved in the intensity of that single, shared moment.

Taeyang, his usually radiant smile replaced with a hesitant, almost vulnerable expression, was the first to speak. He stuttered, his voice thick with emotion. "Hyung… we… we thought you were hurt."

The silence that followed was heavy, laden with unspoken words, with years of longing and regret. The air crackled with a palpable tension.

Jiyoung, ever the flamboyant one, reached out and lightly touched Seunghyun's messy hair. He instinctively smoothed it back into place, a small, familiar gesture that spoke volumes. It was a reflex, a brotherly impulse honed over years of shared experiences, of countless hours spent together.

"Hyung, you look like you haven't slept in days!" he said, his voice a mixture of concern and affection.

Daesung, ever the practical one, gently swatted Jiyoung's hand away. "Yah! Leave him alone, Jiyoung-hyung. Can't you see he's stressed?"

The small act of discord, the familiar bickering, broke the spell. It was a scene played out countless times in their past, a chaotic, endearing display of brotherly affection. They were no longer TOP, G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung of Bigbang. They were just Seunghyun, Jiyoung, Taeyang, and Daesung, four brothers reunited after a long and painful separation.

Unbeknownst to them, in a discreet observation room overlooking the scene, Lee Byung Hyun stood with a group of fellow artists, their faces etched with a mixture of hope and sadness. They watched the small reunion unfold, their hearts aching with a shared sense of longing.

Bigbang. For so many in the industry, they were more than just a group; they were a national treasure, little brothers to be cherished and protected. Seeing them fractured, scattered by circumstance and personal struggles, had been a source of profound disappointment. Now, witnessing this tentative reconnection, a spark of hope flickered in their hearts.

Suddenly, Seunghyun abruptly stood, his face a mask of conflicting emotions. He turned to leave, the urge to escape overwhelming. He couldn't handle this, not yet. The pressure, the memories, the weight of expectation were too much.

But before he could take more than a few steps, three pairs of hands gently grasped his shoulders, stopping him in his tracks. They weren't holding him back aggressively, but with a gentle firmness, a silent plea.

He turned back to face them, his eyes filled with a raw vulnerability. They weren't meeting as Bigbang, the globally renowned K-pop group. They were meeting as brothers, as young men who had shared a bond forged in the crucible of fame and hardship. They were meeting as individuals who had desperately missed each other, who had carried the weight of their broken brotherhood for far too long.

"Hyung," Taeyang said softly, his voice laced with pleading. "Don't go."

Jiyoung nodded, his eyes filled with a sincerity that belied his flamboyant exterior. "Just… stay for a little while, hyung. Just with us."

Daesung, his usual cheerful demeanor replaced with a rare and touching solemnity, simply squeezed Seunghyun's shoulder. He didn't need to say anything. His presence, his unwavering support, spoke volumes.

Seunghyun looked at their faces, searching for any sign of resentment, any lingering bitterness. But all he saw was love, concern, and an overwhelming sense of longing.

He slowly lowered his head, the tension draining from his body. He couldn't leave, not now. Not when they were here, reaching out to him, offering him a chance to heal, to reconnect.

He met their gaze, a flicker of a smile playing on his lips. "Okay," he whispered, his voice hoarse with emotion. "Okay, I'll stay."

The tension in the room dissolved, replaced by a wave of relief. They stood there, four brothers reunited, not as Bigbang, but as something far more profound, far more enduring. The road ahead was uncertain, the challenges still immense, but in that small, secluded corner of the party, surrounded by the silent support of their industry elders, they had found a glimmer of hope, a path toward healing and reconciliation.

Chapter Text

The relief that washed over Taeyang, Jiyoung, and Daesung was palpable. They subtly adjusted their grip to steer him back to the seating area, not leading, but guiding, ensuring Seunghyun felt in control. They settled back down, an unspoken agreement forming among them. The physical distance had closed, but the emotional chasm still remained.

Beneath the night sky, the cold night air seemed to hold its breath, respecting the intimacy of the moment. The silence that descended was different now, not the heavy, oppressive silence of before, but a comfortable, companionable quiet. They were hyper-aware of Seunghyun, their eyes constantly flitting to him, as if afraid he might vanish like a mirage. He felt their gazes, a mixture of worry and affection, and it made him acutely aware of his own fragile state.

He tried to avoid their unwavering stares, his heart pounding in his chest. He was scared, truly terrified of shattering the fragile peace, of disappointing them again. Sensing his unease, Taeyang gently squeezed his hand, a silent reassurance. Jiyoung offered a small, encouraging nod, while Daesung gave him a warm, comforting smile.

Bathed in the soft glow of moonlight and starlight filtering through the windows, they took the opportunity to truly look at their hyung. The lines of worry etched around his eyes, the slight gauntness of his face, the way his hand trembled slightly – they noticed everything. His hair was still as black as midnight, his eyes, though shadowed, still held that same spark of intensity. He still carried a youthful aura, a reminder of the vibrant, carefree days before the weight of fame had settled upon them. He was beautiful, like a moonbeam captured in human form, and the sight of him sparked a deep ache of longing in their hearts.

It was Jiyoung who eventually broke the silence, his voice soft and tentative. "Hyung, are you... are you doing okay?"

Seunghyun avoided his gaze, picking at a loose thread on his expensive jacket. "Yeah," he mumbled, a small, forced smile flickering across his face. "I'm fine."

They all knew he wasn't fine. The haunted look in his eyes, the nervous energy that still radiated from him, betrayed his words. But they didn't push. They knew Seunghyun would open up when he was ready.

Sensing their desire to ask more, Seunghyun, swallowed hard and shifted the focus. "How about you guys?" he asked, his voice softer now, almost hesitant. "How are you all doing?"

Taeyang was the first to respond, his voice laced with a hint of weariness. "We're... okay, hyung. The entertainment industry... it's changed a lot. It's become a bloodless competition, a constant scramble for attention. Sometimes, it feels... lost."

Jiyoung nodded in agreement, his usual playful demeanor subdued. "Yeah, hyung. This generation... they're unlucky, in a way. Unlike our generation."

Seunghyun frowned, tilting his head in confusion. "Unlucky? What do you mean?"

Daesung smiled gently, a touch of wistfulness in his eyes. "Our generation… we had strong people. Someone who guided us, who showed us how. How the brand, the image… it never lasts. What truly resonates is what reaches the heart." He paused, his gaze fixed on Seunghyun. "And that's why, even now, Bigbang, or the idols from our generation, have a different kind of impact on the listener's heart."

They all smiled, a soft, grateful expression on their faces. Seunghyun still didn't fully understand what they were implying, but the three of them chuckled softly, exchanging knowing glances. He was still so oblivious, they thought, a familiar wave of affection washing over them.

They were referring to him, of course. To Seunghyun's unique vision, his uncompromising artistic integrity, his unwavering belief in the power of authenticity. He had been the driving force behind Bigbang's distinct sound, the one who pushed them to experiment, to break boundaries, to create music that was both meaningful and groundbreaking. He had always insisted that they stay true to themselves, that they never compromise their artistic vision for the sake of popularity.

He felt a a familiar wave of guilt. He hadn't been there for them, not when they needed him most. He had retreated into himself, leaving them to navigate the treacherous waters of the industry alone.

He opened his mouth to apologize, to express his regret, but the words caught in his throat. He was afraid of what he might say, of the raw emotion that threatened to spill out.

The conversation lulled, and the silence returned, but this time it felt different. It was a silence filled with understanding, with shared history, with the unspoken bond that had always connected them. They sat there, lost in their own thoughts, the memories of their past swirling around them like the smoke from a forgotten cigarette.

It was Taeyang who broke the silence once more, his voice light and casual. "Hyung," he began, a playful glint in his eyes. "Remember that time we tried to sneak into that amusement park after our concert?"

A smile tugged at the corner of Seunghyun's lips. "How could I forget? We almost got arrested."

Daesung chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "And Jiyoung-hyung lost his wallet."

Jiyoung playfully shoved Daesung's shoulder. "Hey, that wasn't my fault! It was that pickpocket."

They launched into a lively recounting of the story, each of them adding their own embellishments and exaggerations. Seunghyun found himself laughing along with them, the years of estrangement melting away with each shared memory. He realized how much he had missed this – the easy camaraderie, the playful banter, the feeling of belonging.

Then, Taeyang, with a casualness that belied the nervousness he felt, broached the subject they'd been subtly circling around. "Hyung," he began, his voice light, "would you... would you be open to meeting up again sometime? Not as Bigbang, of course. Just... as brothers?"

The question hung in the air, fragile and hopeful. Taeyang, Jiyoung, and Daesung held their breath, their eyes fixed on Seunghyun, searching for any sign of acceptance. They knew they were treading on thin ice, that they were asking for something precious and potentially unattainable. But they had to try. The thought of reconnecting with Seunghyun, of rebuilding their shattered bond, was too tempting to resist.

Their childish smiles, the genuine warmth that radiated from them, eased the tension in Seunghyun's shoulders. He saw the sincerity in their eyes, the unadulterated affection that still lingered after all this time. It was a comforting sight, a reminder of the simpler, happier days before the pressures of fame had taken their toll.

He hesitated for a moment, the internal conflict warring within him. The fear of failure, of disappointing them yet again, still gnawed at his resolve. But then, he looked at their hopeful faces, saw the unwavering love reflected in their eyes, and something inside him softened.

Slowly, almost imperceptibly, he nodded.

The effect was instantaneous. A wave of pure, unadulterated joy washed over Taeyang, Jiyoung, and Daesung. Their faces lit up, their smiles widening into unrestrained grins. Relief flooded their systems, chasing away the anxiety and uncertainty that had plagued them for so long.

Before Seunghyun could fully register what was happening, Jiyoung, with his characteristic slyness, leaned closer. "Perfect!" he exclaimed, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "We'll just need your number, hyung."

It all happened so fast. A blur of hands, a snatched phone, a flurry of taps. Seunghyun, still reeling from the unexpected turn of events, could only watch in amusement as Jiyoung, Taeyang, and Daesung conspired to add his number to their group chat.

Seunghyun had forgotten; he really never won with these little brothers of his, but now it was all three of them against him. He chuckled softly, shaking his head in amusement. "You guys are impossible," he muttered, but the affection in his voice was undeniable.

He had forgotten, or perhaps chosen to ignore, how easily these three could manipulate him. He had always been the eldest, the one who was supposed to be in control, but when it came to his little brothers, he never stood a chance. They had a way of disarming him, of tapping into his inherent soft spot.

And now, here they were again, working their charm, effortlessly breaching the walls he had so carefully erected around himself. He should have resisted, should have maintained his distance, but he found himself unable to deny them this small victory.

This moment was the most happiness time for Taeyang, Jiyoung, and Daesung. More than being on stage, more than receiving awards, more than anything else in the world, they were simply happy to be together, reunited with their hyung.

He watched, amused and slightly bewildered, as they returned his phone, their victory complete. A faint chuckle escaped his lips. He had forgotten how persuasive they could be. He really never stood a chance.

"We'll text you, hyung!" Jiyoung exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

"Yeah, we'll plan something fun!" Daesung added, his voice brimming with excitement.

"Don't worry, hyung, we'll take care of everything!" Taeyang reassured, patting him on the back.

Seunghyun shook his head, a genuine smile now firmly in place. This moment, this simple, unadulterated joy, was the most happiness he've felt in years.

As if on cue, a gust of wind swept through the park, sending a shiver down Seunghyun's spine. He instinctively wrapped his arms around himself, trying to ward off the sudden chill.

Seeing his discomfort, Taeyang immediately took off his coat and draped it over Seunghyun's shoulders. "Here, hyung," he said, his voice filled with concern. "You must be cold."

Seunghyun was taken aback by the gesture. He started to protest, to refuse the offer, but Taeyang simply chuckled, his eyes filled with warmth. "It's okay, hyung. Really okay."

Daesung and Jiyoung, witnessing the exchange, burst into laughter, teasingly calling out, "The volcano and snow partner have returned!"

They were referring to an old joke, a playful jab at the contrasting personalities of Taeyang and Seunghyun. Taeyang, who seemed to thrive in cold weather but couldn't stand the heat, and Seunghyun, who loved the warmth but was surprisingly sensitive to the cold.

Taeyang joined in the laughter, his eyes crinkling at the corners. He truly loved moments like these, moments where they could simply be themselves, without the weight of expectation or the pressure of their public image.

Seunghyun, enveloped in Taeyang's coat, felt a sense of comfort he hadn't realized he was missing. The familiar scent of Taeyang's cologne filled his nostrils, a reminder of their shared history, their unbreakable bond.

He looked at his little brothers, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of the moonlight, and a wave of gratitude washed over him. This moment, this simple act of reconnection, was the most happiness time for Taeyang, Jiyoung, and Daesung. More than the roar of the crowd, more than the blinding lights of the stage, more than the accolades and awards, this was what truly mattered. Being together, as brothers, was a feeling that was rare and precious.

Chapter Text

He smiled softly, his heart swelling with a mixture of gratitude and affection.

As the night deepened, a sense of contentment settled over them. They talked for hours, reminiscing about old times, sharing stories of their lives, and laughing at silly jokes. The conversation flowed effortlessly, like a familiar melody they had all known and loved. They were brothers again, bound together by a shared history, an unbreakable bond, and an unwavering love for one another.

But as time wore on, Seunghyun felt a familiar pang of anxiety creep into his mind. The warmth and affection he was receiving was a balm to his wounded soul, but it also heightened his fear. He knew he didn't deserve their kindness, their unwavering love. He had brought them nothing but trouble, disappointment, and heartache. He was a burden, a liability, and they would be better off without him.

He glanced at his watch, his heart pounding in his chest. It was getting late, and he knew he had to leave. He couldn't stay here any longer, basking in their warmth, pretending that everything was okay. He had to protect them, to shield them from his toxic presence.

He cleared his throat, his voice trembling slightly. "Guys," he said softly, "I should probably get going. It's getting late."

The others looked at him, their faces etched with disappointment. They wanted him to stay, to linger in their company, to prolong this moment of reunion. But they also knew that they couldn't force him. They had to respect his decision, even if it broke their hearts.

Taeyang nodded slowly, his eyes filled with sadness. "Okay, hyung," he said quietly. "We understand."

Jiyoung and Daesung echoed his sentiment, their voices subdued and respectful. They were disappointed, but they wouldn't pressure him. They knew that Seunghyun needed space, time to process everything.

Seunghyun stood up, his legs feeling unsteady. He offered them a warm smile, but it felt forced, unnatural. "I truly wish you all happiness," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "Even if I'm no longer here. I'm glad you're okay, truly glad."

His words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken meaning. They wanted to argue, to tell him that they weren't okay without him, that his absence had left a gaping hole in their lives. But they knew that it was useless. He wouldn't believe them. He was too convinced of his own unworthiness.

They walked him to his car, their steps slow and reluctant. They wanted to savor every last moment, to imprint his image in their minds, to hold onto the hope that they would see him again soon.

Seunghyun reached the car, turned to them, and offered another small, sad smile. "Goodbye" he said softly, then opened the car door and stepped inside.

As he closed the door, he felt a wave of relief wash over him. He had done it. He had managed to get through the evening without breaking down, without revealing the depth of his despair. He had protected them, shielded them from his darkness.

But before he could fasten his seatbelt, the door was yanked open. Daesung stood there, blocking the doorway with his body, his face etched with a mixture of determination and fear.

Seunghyun stared at him, his mind reeling. What was happening? Why was Daesung looking at him like that?

Daesung reached out, his hand trembling, and gently cupped Seunghyun's face. His touch was tentative, hesitant, as if he were afraid of breaking him.

Seunghyun flinched slightly, the pain in Daesung's grip a sharp contrast to the gentle touch. He didn't understand what was happening. The atmosphere had shifted, becoming charged with an intensity he couldn't comprehend.

He looked into Daesung's eyes, searching for an explanation, but all he saw was a bottomless well of pain and longing. He saw a reflection of his own despair, but magnified, intensified.

And then, Daesung spoke, his voice a soft, broken whisper. "Hyung," he said, his eyes brimming with tears, "I love you so much. I miss you so much."

His words hit Seunghyun like a physical blow. He gasped, his breath catching in his throat. He couldn't breathe. He couldn't think. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

Daesung continued to hold his face, his grip tightening slightly. "Please," he begged, his voice cracking with emotion. "Don't ever leave us again. Never."

Seunghyun was stunned, his mind reeling. Daesung’s words hit him like a physical blow, shattering the fragile composure he'd been desperately trying to maintain. He didn’t understand. He didn’t deserve this. He had caused them so much pain, so much disappointment. Why were they being so kind, so loving?

He swallowed hard, trying to find his voice but his throat was dry. He felt a surge of conflicting emotions: confusion, disbelief, guilt, and a flicker of something he hadn’t allowed himself to feel in a long time. Hope? No, it couldn’t be. He couldn’t let himself hope.

Why? He deserved nothing from them, just their hatred and disappointment, that’s it. He’s the one who left, so why?

Taeyang and Jiyoung watched from a distance, their faces etched with concern. They knew Daesung was the most sensitive of them all, the one who felt everything the most deeply. They had seen him struggle with Seunghyun's departure, the pain etched on his face, the silent tears he shed in the privacy of his room. They had tried to comfort him, to reassure him that everything would be okay, but nothing they said seemed to make a difference. Now, seeing Daesung finally express his feelings, they knew they had to let him have this moment, to let him say what he needed to say.

Daesung’s eyes welled up with tears, his voice choked with emotion. "Don't leave us again, hyung," he pleaded, his grip tightening. "Please. I can’t lose you again."

Seunghyun was overwhelmed, confused, and conflicted. He didn't deserve their love, he couldn't understand why they were acting this way. The emotions were too much, too intense.

He wanted to say something, anything, to reassure them, but he couldn't make any promises. He had nothing to offer them, nothing but his own brokenness.

Daesung seemed to sense his internal struggle. He released Seunghyun's face and pulled him into a tight hug. "Just promise me one thing, hyung," he pleaded, his voice muffled against Seunghyun's shoulder. "Promise me you won't block our numbers again. We'll reach out. Please, just let us be there for you."

Chapter Text

Seunghyun silently nodded, the weight of his guilt pressing down on him. Even though he still felt unsure, terrified of the future and the potential consequences of reconnecting with his former bandmates, he couldn't bring himself to deny Daesung's heartfelt plea. He mumbled a barely audible, "Okay," before pulling away gently from the hug.

He drove home in a daze, his mind blank, unable to fully process the whirlwind of emotions he had experienced that evening. The weight of his past actions, the pain he had caused, and the unexpected outpouring of love from Daesung left him feeling numb and disoriented.

When he arrived home, his loyal dog, Kami, a golden retriever service dog, rushed to greet him, her tail wagging furiously. The unconditional love in her eyes was a stark contrast to the turmoil within him. He knelt down and buried his face in her fur, drawing comfort from her warm presence.

After cleaning himself and preparing for bed, Seunghyun hesitantly reached for his phone. He composed a message to Lee Byung Hyun, apologizing for leaving the event without saying goodbye. He felt a pang of guilt for his abrupt departure, knowing that it was rude and inconsiderate.

Lee Byung Hyun replied almost immediately, his message gentle and reassuring, like a father comforting a son. He brushed off Seunghyun's apology, saying it was perfectly understandable and not to worry about it.

Emboldened by his senior's understanding, Seunghyun typed another message, his fingers trembling slightly. He confessed that he hadn't realized the other Bigbang members would be at the event. He had been caught off guard, overwhelmed by their presence.

A few minutes of agonizing silence stretched between them before Lee Byung Hyun finally responded. His message was contrite, acknowledging that he should have given Seunghyun more warning. He apologized for putting him in such an uncomfortable position.

Seunghyun felt a wave of guilt wash over him. He had always looked up to Lee Byung Hyun, respected his wisdom and guidance. The thought of causing his senior any distress was unbearable. "No, hyung, it's okay," he typed quickly, trying to reassure him. "I'm glad I got to see them, even if it was brief."

Lee Byung Hyun then wrote, "If it becomes too much, if their presence is a burden, tell me. I'll make sure they no longer contact you or seek you out."

Seunghyun's fingers flew across the keyboard, desperate to prevent such a drastic measure. "No, no, it's bearable," he insisted. "It's really okay. I can handle it." He knew he was lying, but he couldn't bring himself to sever all ties with his former brothers.

Lee Byung Hyun's final message was a stark reminder of Seunghyun's own well-being: "Don't take this step for anyone else, Seunghyun. Only think about yourself. What's most important is you, not anyone else's feelings."

Seunghyun read the words and a bitter smile tugged at his lips. His sunbae and hyung always knew him too well. He could try to cut himself off from the world, isolate himself behind his walls, but Lee Byung Hyun had a knack for bypassing his defenses. Even his little brothers tried their best to meet him even calling him, none of it make him budge. But lee byung hyun always got to him. He remembered the time Lee Byung Hyun had threatened to camp outside his house, taking photos to post on Instagram so the whole world would know he was trying to get Seunghyun to open the door. It was ridiculous, over the top, but Seunghyun knew not to underestimate his senior's eccentric determination.

He closed his eyes, Lee Byung Hyun's words echoing in his mind. He didn't deserve their kindness, their concern. He was a burden, a source of bad luck. What if their reunion was discovered by reporters, by fans? The media would have a field day, churning out hateful articles that would tarnish the reputations of his former bandmates, even Lee Byung Hyun, for associating with him.

The thought sent a jolt of fear through him. He grabbed his phone, frantically searching for news articles or social media posts about the event. He felt a surge of relief when he found nothing, but the relief was short-lived. It was barely past midnight, and the internet never sleeps. What if he woke up tomorrow to a storm of hate aimed at his friends?

He felt a wave of panic wash over him, his chest tightening, his breath coming in ragged gasps. He stumbled out of bed, his legs weak and unsteady.

Kami, sensing his distress, nudged him gently with her head. She wasn't just a pet; she was trained to recognize and respond to his anxiety attacks. He sank to the floor beside his bed, his body trembling uncontrollably.

Kami nudged again and opened the drawer pulling out a box filled with his medication. Seunghyun, his eyes filled with fear, fumbled with the box, his hands shaking so violently that he could barely open it. He managed to extract a pill, swallowing it dry.

Slowly, agonizingly slowly, he began to feel the medication take effect. His heart rate slowed, his breathing deepened, and the crushing weight on his chest began to ease. Kami remained by his side, nudging him and licking his hand, her presence a constant source of comfort.

"Thank you," he whispered softly to Kami, his voice barely audible. "Thank you for being here."

He laid on the floor for what felt like hours, Kami curled up beside him, her warm body a reassuring presence. As the anxiety subsided, exhaustion took over, and he drifted into a fitful sleep, haunted by fragmented memories and lingering fears.

Meanwhile, back at the event, Lee Byung Hyun watched Jiyong, Taeyang, and Daesung with a barely concealed apprehension. He had known these boys for years, had witnessed their meteoric rise to fame and the subsequent controversies and hardships they had faced. He understood their unwavering bond, their fierce loyalty to one another. But he also knew Seunghyun, and he knew the depth of his scars.

He glanced at his phone again, still no reply from Seunghyun. He hoped he hadn't pushed him too far. He trusted the Bigbang members, to a point, but Seunghyun's well-being was his priority. “If it’s too much for Seunghyun, if there's any sign this reunion is doing more harm than good, we step back,” he reiterated, his voice firm, brooking no argument. “And that will be the last time I involve myself. I won’t help after that.”

The atmosphere in the room thickened, the air heavy with unspoken tension. One of Lee Byung Hyun's friends, the actress Han Hyo Joo, stepped forward, placing a hand on his arm. "Byung Hyun oppa, trust them," she said softly. "They love Seunghyun. They won't hurt him."

Lee Byung Hyun remained unconvinced, his gaze fixed on Jiyong. Jiyong, sensing his skepticism, met his eyes, his expression serious. "We don't want to ever let Seunghyun hyung go again," Jiyong stated, his voice low and resolute. "Maybe he's broken, maybe he's not. But we’ve all learned how wrong we were to leave him alone all this time. A broken Seunghyun hyung needs to be with us, not isolated like this."

Lee Byung Hyun's eyes narrowed, his expression hardening. He perceived a hint of possessiveness in Jiyong's words, a hint of forcefulness that he didn't like. He was about to voice his concerns when Taeyang interjected, his voice calm and measured. "What Jiyong means is, we know Seunghyun hyung. We know his limits better than anyone. We want to approach this in a way that respects his boundaries, that honors his pace.”

Daesung, ever the optimist, chimed in, his voice filled with sincerity. "Of course, Seunghyun hyung's well-being is our utmost priority. We won't do anything to jeopardize his recovery or his peace of mind."

Gummy, a senior artist from their YG days, who had observed the entire exchange with a knowing smile, stepped forward. "Byung Hyun, these boys are like brothers. They've been through thick and thin together. They're the last people in the world who would intentionally hurt Seunghyun."

Lee Byung Hyun considered her words, his gaze softening slightly. He knew Gummy was right. He knew the depth of their bond. But the years of separation, the weight of the past, had created a chasm between them, a chasm that he wasn't sure they could bridge.

“Alright,” Lee Byung Hyun said, finally relenting, but his voice maintained a thread of warning. “But I’m watching. One wrong move, one sign that this is hurting Seunghyun, and I'm pulling the plug. Understood?"

The Bigbang members nodded in unison, their expressions resolute. They knew the stakes were high, that they were walking on eggshells. But they were determined to win back their brother, to heal the wounds of the past, and to rebuild the bonds that had once united them.

The next morning, Seunghyun woke up with a heavy heart, the events of the previous night replaying in his mind. He felt drained, both physically and emotionally. He considered staying in bed all day, hiding from the world, but he knew that wasn't a sustainable solution. He needed to face his fears, to confront his past, if he ever wanted to move forward.

He showered, dressed, and made himself a simple breakfast. As he ate, he checked his phone, bracing himself for the worst. To his surprise, there were no missed calls, no angry messages, no hateful comments. The internet seemed blissfully unaware of his encounter with Bigbang.

He felt a flicker of hope, a fragile sense of optimism. Maybe, just maybe, he could navigate this situation without causing too much damage.

Later that morning, he received a text message from Daesung. It was a simple message, but it made his heart skip a beat.

“Hyung, how are you feeling today? We were wondering if you wanted to grab some lunch. No pressure, of course. Just thought it would be nice to catch up.”

Seunghyun stared at the message for a long time, his mind racing. He wanted to say yes, to embrace the opportunity to reconnect with his friends. But the fear of failure, the fear of causing them pain, held him back.

He typed a response, deleted it, and typed another. He repeated the process several times, unable to find the right words.

Finally, he settled on a simple, noncommittal reply.

“Maybe another time. I have a lot of work to do today.”

He sent the message, feeling a pang of regret as he did so. He knew he was pushing them away, but he couldn't help it. He wasn't ready. Not yet.

A few minutes later, his phone rang. It was Jiyong.

Seunghyun hesitated, his heart pounding in his chest. He considered ignoring the call, letting it go to voicemail. But he knew that wouldn't solve anything.

He took a deep breath and answered the phone.

“Hello?” he said, his voice trembling slightly.

“Seunghyun hyung,” Jiyong said, his voice gentle and reassuring. “We know you’re busy, but we just wanted to check in. How are you really doing?”

Seunghyun closed his eyes, his emotions threatening to overwhelm him. He wanted to be honest, to tell them how scared he was, how unsure he felt. But he couldn't bring himself to do it.

“I’m fine,” he said, his voice flat and emotionless. “I’m just… busy.”

Jiyong was silent for a moment, as if assessing his words. “Okay, hyung,” he said finally.

“And hyung,” Jiyong added, his voice tinged with warmth. “We miss you. A lot.”

Seunghyun’s eyes welled up with tears. “I miss you too,” he whispered, before hanging up the phone.

Chapter Text

The next morning dawned crisp and clear, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within Seunghyun. Five days. Five days since that fateful, accidental reunion. Five days of relentless, rotating invitations to eat, each one a little hammer blow to his carefully constructed walls. Daesung first, then Taeyang, then Jiyong, a well-oiled machine of persistent friendship that he was actively trying to sabotage. Breakfast, lunch, dinner – the offers came at all hours, each laced with a warmth that made his excuses feel like knives twisting in his gut.

He typed out another rejection, his fingers hovering hesitantly over the 'send' button. "So sorry, guys. Really swamped with work today. Raincheck?" He knew it was weak, pathetic even, but it was the best he could muster. He rationalized it: they were busy men, global icons. He shouldn't be a distraction, a potential scandal waiting to happen. The less they were seen together, the better.

Meanwhile, at the Black Label building, inside Taeyang's studio, a palpable air of defeat hung heavy. Jiyong, perched on a mixing console, watched Taeyang’s slumped shoulders with concern. "Another rejection?" he asked, his voice low.

Taeyang simply nodded, his eyes fixed on the floor.

Daesung, usually the group's ray of sunshine, ran a hand through his hair, a gesture of frustration and anxiety. "This isn't working. We're not getting anywhere." He kicked listlessly at an abandoned drum pedal.

Just then, the door swung open and Teddy, their longtime producer and friend, strolled in, Gummy trailing behind him, carrying a tray laden with coffees. Teddy, a calming presence in their often chaotic world, offered a reassuring smile. "Come on, guys, don't lose hope. You'll bring him back. Just gotta keep trying."

Gummy, known for her sharp wit and no-nonsense attitude, chimed in, handing out the coffees. "You three are acting like teenagers with a crush. It's endearing, but also a little… pathetic." She chuckled, but her eyes held genuine affection. "It's like you're all desperately trying to win the heart of some elusive girl."

Jiyong, ever the confident one, scoffed. "If it was a girl, I'd have her eating out of my hand by now. Hell, if it was a guy, I'd still be pretty confident." A mischievous glint sparkled in his eyes.

Daesung groaned. "It's not about girls, women, or men, hyung. It's Seunghyun hyung. It's… different." The words hung in the air, a silent acknowledgement of the complex history and unspoken emotions that bound them together.

Teddy and Gummy exchanged a bewildered look. Teddy, ever pragmatic, broke the silence. "Seunghyun… is a man, right? Just checking. Sometimes I get so caught up in the k-pop world, I lose track of reality."

Gummy rolled her eyes. "Of course, he's a man, Teddy! What did you think he was, a mythical creature?"

The trio, Jiyong, Taeyang, and Daesung, responded with a simultaneous, dramatic groan, their heads sinking into their hands. The sheer absurdity of their situation, the frustrating brick wall that stood between them and their friend, was almost too much to bear. The three members of Bigbang let out a collective groan again, the sound echoing their frustration. Gummy, watching their theatrical display of misery, finally snapped. "Okay, what's the problem? Just tell me!"

"He won't even eat with us," Taeyang confessed, his voice laced with exhaustion. "Not even a short meeting. It's been five days, and nothing's changed."

Teddy sighed, leaning against the wall. "It's only been five days, guys. You've been waiting for him for three years."

"I'm going crazy," Taeyang groaned. "Even Min Hyo Rin says I'm acting crazy!"

Gummy chuckled, a small spark of humor in the tense atmosphere. "Where's all that bravado you had when you were practically begging Lee Byung Hun to set up a meeting with Seunghyun? Huh?"

Then, her expression softened. "Look, at least he's not actively blocking you anymore. He's not refusing to move forward, he just needs time. We all know how careful Seunghyun is."

Jiyong looked at Gummy, his eyes pleading. "Noona, please, guide us. How do we bring Seunghyun hyung forward without pushing him further away? It feels like every step we take towards him, he retreats ten steps back."

Daesung nodded in agreement, his usual cheerful demeanor replaced with a rare somberness. "He's right. We're walking on eggshells. Any mention of the past, of Bigbang, even of music, and he shuts down completely."

Gummy looked at them, a soft smile gracing her lips. Their earnestness, their genuine concern for Seunghyun, reminded her of their early days, fresh-faced and full of dreams. It was a sincerity that time and fame hadn't eroded. "Okay, listen closely. You're approaching this all wrong. You're trying too hard, and he can feel it."

She took a sip of her coffee, gathering her thoughts. "Don't suddenly bombard him with questions about music, his time in Bigbang, or a potential reunion. Those are landmines right now. Focus on the mundane, the everyday. Try to connect with him on a human level, not as bandmates trying to stage a comeback.”

She looked at Taeyang. “Taeyang, you can complain about your son’s tantrums, or show Seunghyun pictures of how cute he is. Share the joys and frustrations of fatherhood. He’s an uncle, after all, even if he hasn't quite embraced the role."

Her gaze shifted to Jiyong. "Jiyong, you know fashion. Discuss new trends, fascinating shoes, unique styles. Talk about something that excites you, something outside the realm of music. Draw him in with your passion."

Finally, she turned to Daesung. "Daesung, maybe you can start by telling him a funny story about your last girlfriend, how you broke up with her. Make it light, entertaining, self-deprecating. The goal is to show him that you're just sharing your life with him, nothing more."

"Only mundane things," she emphasized. "Keep the conversations light, enjoyable. Show him you just want to talk to your older brother, nothing more. No hidden agendas, no expectations."

Teddy nodded in agreement. "Gummy's right. If you keep pressing him about Bigbang, he'll feel guilty, like he's letting you down. It'll be painful for him to see you guys trying so hard, knowing he's the one holding things back. But by showing him that you just want to share your lives with him, that you value his presence regardless of Bigbang, maybe… just maybe, it'll change something inside him."

The three of them absorbed her words, their faces etched with concentration. They began to discuss meticulously what topics they would broach with Seunghyun, carefully considering the wording they would use. They were constructing a plan, word by word, sentence by sentence.

Gummy chuckled, nudging Teddy beside her. "They're even more passionate about this than they are about making music or approaching a girl."

Teddy nodded, a knowing smile on his face. "Only Seunghyun can make them like this. Can turn G-Dragon, the king of K-pop, Taeyang, the devoted husband and father, and Daesung, who is usually so cold and pragmatic in relationships, into children again."