I leaned my head against the icy bars of my cell, thoughts trapped in the fuckery I created. This day would happen one way or another, but I don't understand why did I let that fucking little pissant bring me to this. I've been immune to his digs from the moment Era became mine, but he crossed the line.

I'm not a fan of my parents, this is no secret. Their past and the way they have treated me will haunt me for all of my days. It's a surprise my career wasn't a notorious serial killer-I'm sure I would fit the profile. However, as pain-stricken as I am, I could never bring myself to harm someone with my hands. How would I live with myself if I did? Now, my attitude, that's a different story.

I'm never easy to get along with, but there is a reason for this. The more people I kept at bay, the stronger it made me. I protected my heart this way, and it was fail safe until I met Era. My walls were untouched. Smooth. Solid. I fought with my inner demons on my own, didn't need any rescue and willing to take this to my grave. I was going to fight to the end. Now, I will have to continue this journey alone, with no distractions.

It will take some time to rebuild what she crumbled, but now I know where the next road will lead. I will have all the time in the world to do it.

Footsteps approached me and stood up. Jin's glare impaled me, and I bit down on my lips to compensate for the pain. The look of disappointment in his eyes tore me down as it always does, but I warned him, did I not? I told him I would fuck up.

Keys jingled in the echoes as the cop unlock my barricade. He stared at me, only nodding for me to exit, never uttering a word before he left at a quiet pace. Jin continued to stare at me, speechless. He ran his fingers through his hair in frustration, before scoffing. "Let's go." He spoke.

One of the last things I want right now is to argue with Jin. I am aware the consequences of getting into trouble again. However, is it much of a consequence when it's something I must do as a citizen of this country? My time, however, has been lax because I've avoided it for as long as I can, but now I don't have a choice. My time is up.

Our car ride was silent. My cousin is much like me in the sense he used travel to sort his thoughts. There were many days I took my bike for a long ride just so I could escape a little. Too bad the baggage trailing behind us will always be there, no matter the distance. Getting back to his apartment seemed like it took longer than usual, but I know it's my mind dragging it out. I wanted to say something to break the chill in the silence between my cousin and me, but I know nothing I say will explain what happened tonight.

Minutes later, we arrived at the apartment complex. Jin parked his car and shut off the engine, but didn't bother to exit.

"Your bike is in the impound. You should be able to get it tomorrow." He uttered.

My reply was a long sigh. This was only a setup for what he was preparing to say. I decided not to argue with Jin, but listen and obey what the older will tell me. Perhaps this was my rescue all along.

"Taehyung, I told you what would happen if you got arrested again. I'm not sure if it's authority, discipline, or maybe self-control you can't seem to get a handle on. Perhaps some time serving our country will mend these weaknesses of yours." Jin spoke. "You have an appointment tomorrow. Don't be late." His final words before he exited his vehicle.

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Last chapter and Epilogue next ❤️

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