I spent 4 hours away from the room. I made sure to eat, and take a shower back in the suite. When I was changed, I packed some clean clothes in my duffle, and headed out again. The thought of trying to sleep doesn't even enter my mind. I wouldn't be able to anyway.

When I walk through the door to her room, I smile at Jimin. He's got his head on the mattress while he plays with her fingers, and is singing quietly. His voice is soft and almost feminine. The heartrate monitor is steady and slow, which relieves me. I don't move, but just listen to my friend's amazing voice after so long.

Jimin, Taehyung, and I used to go to karaoke bars alot in college. We even entered competitions sometimes, and I miss those carefree days. Jimin dreamt of becoming an idol, but his family didn't support it, so he buried his hopes, accepting his fate. I love his parents, and I know they only wanted what is best for him, but I always wished his Dad was a little less controlling. Jimin would have been an amazing idol.

When he finishes the song, I move closer and lightly clap my hands for him. His turns and offers me a beautiful smile. Setting my bag down, I drag a stool next to him and don't force him to move away. I know he loves Sophia alot, and has been struggling with how things have gone for her.

"Did something happen?"

"No Kookie-ah... I was just talking... And singing... She's fine... Same as when you left. Did you get food?"

"Jimin hyung... Thank you..."

"You never have to thank me Kook... I love her too... I was just thinking, I wish we could turn back the clock..."

"Me too Hyung... Me too."

"You still sound amazing Hyung... You should really think about recording a cover on that music app... SoundCloud? I'm sure people would be excited."

"Aaahhh... Kookie-ah, you know my father wouldn't like it..."

I see his face darken, but I understand him. My own father wouldn't want me putting myself out there, in that way, at this point. I'm not complaining, but sometimes it's difficult to come from powerful families with expectations that govern our choices.

"You could do it anonymously... Maybe we do it together with Taehyung hyung... It could be fun, and something to share with our kids someday..."

"I don't know... I doubt I'll ever have kids at this point..."

"What?!? Hyung... You and Bora never talked about it?"

"We are separated... My father is pissed about it, so I might have to take her back, but for now, we're... apart..."

"Sorry... I didn't realize... I'm sorry I haven't been there for you... I've been so selfish... What can I do Hyung?"

"Stop it Jungkookie... You have always been there when it mattered... I thought Bora and I would make it work, but she didn't after everything with her sister... After I got shot, she couldn't handle it..."

I couldn't think of anything else to say, so I just put a hand on his shoulder. He turned back to look at Sophia, and I saw the glistening of his eyes he was trying to hide from me. I didn't call him out, and let him focus on my love to distract himself.

"Jungkook... While I was here, talking to her, I met a nurse. She made my heart race like crazy... Is that how it felt when you met Sophia? Did you know instantly that your life wouldn't ever be the same?"

I looked at him with surprise, but he didn't look away from Sophia. I think back to that day, and how as soon as my eyes met hers, I was lost. She took my breath away for sure...

"Yes Hyung... That's exactly what happened... Did you ask her name?"

He shakes his head, and lowers it to face the floor. He looks defeated, which hurts me deeply.

"It doesn't matter either way Jungkook... I can't communicate with her. Namjoon hyung had to tell me what she was saying... I felt so stupid."

"You can learn to communicate Jimin-ah..."

"My father will never allow it... It's probably just my stupid jealousy over you and my sister here..."

When he turns to look at me, I see his pain, masterfully hidden behind his smile. I don't point it out, but promise myself that I'll find out that nurse's name.

"Thank you for staying with her Hyung... Thank you for making sure I took care of myself also..."

"It's no problem Kookie... I was being selfish anyway... I wanted to spare everyone around you from your stench."

"Aaaand we're back... It wasn't that bad Hyung!"

"Oh my God Kook... You hadn't showered in days! You can't tell me that you didn't realize you smelled?"

His teasing makes my heart lighter. I was worried about him, and I know what he's doing now is somewhat of a deflection, but at least he's smiling.

"When Sophia is better... Let's sing for her with Taehyung hyung..."

"You haven't sang for her Jungkook?"

"Of course I have... She loves when I sing... But I want the 3 of us to share that with her, together... I know she'd love it. Ok?"

He shows me a genuine smile, nodding his head to me. Now, we only need Sophia to wake up.

__________

A few hours ago, the Dr came and said only one of us could stay. They wanted to do a thorough checkup, and wash Sophia. Jimin and I said good night, and I moved out of the way while the Dr did his testing. He seemed pleased with what he's seeing, and took a moment to speak to me after he finished. He thinks she may wake up soon, and wants me to notify them immediately if she does. I assured him that I would, relieved that he was letting me remain with her.

A few nurses came next, and prepared a basin of bath water. I stood from my seat in the corner, and asked to help. They thought it was the sweetest thing, and helped me move her around while I pampered her with the warm water. I can't wait to have her back so we can take a long, warm, bath together. It's always been one of my favorite things to do with her.

When it was all done, I took a seat next to the bed. The nurses tried to convince me to use the reclining chair and get some sleep, but I don't want to. I need to be here if Sophia wakes up. They see my stubbornness, and don't argue. After everyone else is gone, I focus my energy on my love... I feel her heartbeat, and just start talking. I tell her all the things I've been doing, and what I ate... It's dumb stuff really, but I think the only important thing right now is that she hears me.

__________

"Mr Jeon? Sir, wake up."

I sit up quickly, looking around in confusion. There's a nurse standing next to me, smiling gently at me. She doesn't push it, and let's me regain my senses. I hear the increased rhythm of the heartrate monitor, and an anxious feeling in my chest. I reach out to hold onto Sophia's hand. As soon as I take it in mine, I feel the twitch...

"She's trying to wake up Mr. Jeon... I just need to check her over if you want to go to the bathroom, or get a coffee..."

"What if she opens her eyes and I'm not here..."

My fears are voiced out, and the nurse lays a comforting hand on my shoulder. I stare at my love, and wish she'd open her eyes, but she isn't ready.

"I've been doing this job for a while... You have time to go get a drink and maybe some fresh air. I promise she is just starting... I think it'll be a couple more hours before she's conscious. Trust me..."

I know I should listen, so I stand and leave a gentle kiss on Sophia's forehead.

"i'll be back soon love... i'm just going to get a drink..."

I don't waste time, and head to the bathroom. When I'm finished, I stop to grab a couple water bottles from the kitchenette they keep for families of the patients. I see a bowl of fruit, and grab an apple before heading back to the room. I feel the anxiousness of my baby, so I move to the side and hold her hand again.

__________

An alarm on the respirator sounds, and I stand from the stool. I watch with fear as Sophia's hand goes to her throat. She has her eyes screwed shut still, as her fingers begin to claw at her neck. A team of Doctors and nurses rush into the room, pushing me out of the way. I feel her panicking, and it takes my own breath away.

"Mr. Jeon? Please wait in the hall."

I don't argue, and head to stand helplessly outside the room. I hear them yelling, and doing God knows what, while I try to maintain my calm. When I can't take it anymore, I pull out my phone and call a person that I've neglected over the years... Right now, he's the only one that will be able to help me...

otp

Hello?

Hyung... I... I need you...

Ok... I'm on my way Kook... Is it Sophia?

Y-yes... I think I'm going to lo-lose her... I can't... He-help me...

Calm down... I'll be there as soon as I can... You won't lose her...

Thank you Namjoon hyung...

-

Namjoon

I hadn't been sleeping, but I moved really fast to put on my sweats and head out of the hotel. The sound of Jungkook's voice hurt me, just like that day, all those years ago, when I told him the biggest lie. I know that he's forgiven me, but our relationship has never been the same. I hope this isn't going to end badly...

I rush down the halls to where I know Sophia's room is. The sight of Jungkook, kneeling on the floor has me halting my steps. Is she gone? No...

"Jungkook-ah... I'm here."

He stood up and almost attacked me in a hug. I can feel him trembling, and I try to find out what happened. He tells me how he thinks she was choking, and they made him leave. I don't want to guess, so I only listen and try to reassure him. There are many things that could cause her to be this way, some of them really bad.

"Let's not panic Kook... I'm sure it'll be alright..."

As soon as the words left my mouth, the door to the room opened and the Dr walked out. He doesn't look happy, but he stops in front of Jungkook.

"She is trying to wake up, and she began fighting the breathing tube. I was able to give her a sedative, and that calmed her. Unfortunately, it means she will sleep a little longer."

"Thank you... Thank you for saving her."

Jungkook's sincere voice cracked as he spoke, and he bowed to the surprised man in front of him.

"You can go back in if you'd like... I'm staying in the hospital until she wakes, so have the nurses call for me if there are any issues."

With that, the Dr walked away and we went inside the room. There were nurses cleaning up the remnants of the tools they used to save Sophia. I sat with Jungkook while he held onto Sophia's hand and tried not to cry.

"It'll be alright Jungkook-ah... She's a fighter."

"I know Hyung... I just don't know when she's going to have enough... You know? I think she must be tired of the fight... I am scared."

"I know you are... But we're all here for you. You don't have to carry it all inside, you know... Let us help you."

He nodded, but never took his eyes from the girl in the bed.

__________

A small commotion wakes me, and it takes me a minute to realize where I am. As soon as my eyes land on Jungkook, I understand what I was hearing. Sophia is awake, and scared out of her mind. Jungkook is holding her arms down and trying to calm her while calling me to wake up. I stand and rush to the other side of the bed, pressing the call bell to get help. I take one of her hands and work with Jungkook to try and keep her from injuring herself.

"Shhhh... It's alright Love... Please calm down... The tube is to help you breathe... Shhhh..."

Tears are running down her cheeks and her eyes are blown wide open. I rub her arm gently as I hold her hand in mine. When Jungkook looks at me, I give him an encouraging smile. This is good... He needs to believe it.

"Jungkook-ah... I'm going to go find a nurse... The bell is taking too long. Just stay calm alright?"

He takes her other hand from me and gets into eye contact with her. I go quickly in case she becomes combative again.

"Welcome back baby... I've missed your eyes so much... Don't stress... You're ok... I'm here, and I'm not going anywhere. I love you so much Sophia... So so much."

Jungkook

Hyung came back with a couple nurses, and they immediately started to check over the machines. A groan left Sophia and my eyes went back to her.

"Are you hurting love?"

The nurse who has been with her from the beginning started talking to her also, making her turn her eyes away from mine.

"Hello Miss Sophia... I'm your nurse. My name is Genevieve... But you can call me Gen. I know you're very confused, and probably frightened right now. Please try to stay as calm as possible though. We're going to do some tests, and then we'll get that breathing tube out. Alright? Blink your eyes once if you understand."

My love squeezes my hand and begins to blink rapidly, and much more than once. Her heartrate is spiking, and I can feel it racing in my own chest. The nurse tries again, and I move a little closer as I can see the tears starting again. I hold my hand up to the nurse that was about to say something, and she stopped, looking at me. I lean over Sophia, tilting her face gently to be looking at me.

"Sophia-ah... It's me love... Jungkook. Do you know me?"

She stares and then blinks her eyes one time. Relief washes through me, but I just smile at her beautiful face.

"Are you in any pain?"

*two blinks

"Do you understand what the nurse said before?"

*two blinks

I try to figure out why she doesn't, but Namjoon hyung comes closer.

"Jungkook-ah... Maybe she's having a hard time with the English..."

"But Hyung... She grew up with English... I don't think it" "Ask her Kook..."

I turn to see a confused look from my love and smile to relax her.

"Love... Do you not understand the nurse because she isn't speaking Korean?"

*one blink

"Ok... Can I tell you what she's saying?"

*one blink

"They want to run a few tests before taking out the breathing tube. They are going to turn down the machine, and make sure you're able to breathe on your own. You have to remain calm. Can you do that?"

*one blink

"Good... I'll be here the whole time... Just look at me, and squeeze my hand if you need to. Alright?"

*one blink

__________

The tests have been run, and they are preparing to take the tube out. Namjoon hyung spoke to the Dr for me, explaining that Sophia was struggling with understanding English. I guess it's not as uncommon as I thought, and there have even been strange, rare cases, of people waking up after a stroke, able to speak languages they'd never been taught... Whether or not that's true, I get that her brain was injured by the stroke. Noone is sure if the English will come back, but I don't care. Having her alive is all that matters to me.

"Mr. Jeon... We're going to take the tube out now. Let her know that we need to have her relax and it will go quick."

I tell it all to Sophia, and she blinks to me.

"Just close your eyes love... I'm right here."

It's surprisingly fast what they did. They withdrew some liquid from the part of the tube that kept it in place, and then pulled it out. She began coughing, but I whispered for her to calm down, and breathe slowly. Her body trembled, and she seemed to be struggling to get air. Maybe they shouldn't have taken it out.

"She needs to relax Mr. Jeon..." The nurse instructs, so I sit on the bed and reach out, cupping her cheeks. She opens her gorgeous eyes, and I smile. I place a quick peck on her lips that are accessible now. She just watches me, and I help her breathe slowly.

"Just follow my breaths love... Just in... And out... That's it baby... Just like that..."

She stares at me, keeping eye contact, and I feel my stomach squirm. I really thought I was going to lose her...

"j-j.. annmmm"

She tries to say something, but it comes out like a groan... Her face shows she's frustrated. I caress her face, and rub my nose on hers.

"Don't try just yet baby... Rest..."

"Nnnngggg... J-J... Aammm'

I don't know that to do. She wants to say something, but isn't able to. Is this from the surgery? The stroke?

"Jungkook-ah... It's alright. I can see you are worried, but you need to not show her that."

Namjoon hyung speaks to me in English, trying to bring me back from scaring her with my own fears. I look at him, and he stands to get near the bed.

"Hi Sophia... Do you remember me?"

Her eyebrows furrow, but she blinks once at Hyung. He grins, showing her his dimples, and her face lights up. A cute pink blush and a sparkle in her eyes at the deep divots in his cheeks. As happy as I am to see it, jealousy curls inside me. Why didn't she look at me that way? Did she forget her feelings for me, the way she forgot English?

"I can tell you're frustrated Sophia. It's normal right now, so you need to rest. Your brain is healing, and you have to be patient. Do you understand?"

*one blink

"Good... Now, I'm going to go and get some rest myself. Jungkook will be here though. If something happens he'll call. You relax, alright?"

*one blink

Hyung stands again, and waving to me and Sophia, he exits. I feel nervous now. He was so good with her, but what if I say, or do, something wrong? I get a little lost in my thoughts until I feel a squeeze on my hand. I look up to see the woman I love looking at me. She seems shy, but intertwines her fingers with mine, making me smile.

"Are you tired?"

*two blinks

"Do you remember me? Who I am to you?"

I ask, and hold my breath. She looks at me for a long time, and I'm starting to freak out.

*one blink

"Really?"

*one blink

"I love you Sophia-ah... So much..."

*one blink

"Yes? Are you trying to signal that you love me too?"

*one blink

I move to her and kiss her gently. I feel her heart pound, and I pull back, diving my eyes into hers.

"Love? I'm so glad you're awake... But I need to tell you something..."

She looks worried, and I peck her lips.

"Don't worry... I was just going to tell you that I'm exhausted... I couldn't sleep... Can I lay down and cuddle?"

The blush I love to see, paints her cheeks, and she blinks a yes to me, scooting over to give me space. Her movement must have caused her a twinge in her belly because she gasps and grabs her stomach.

"Are you hurt?"

*one blink

"Hold on... I'll get the nurse."

*two blinks

"You are sure?"

*one blink

Her hand pulls me to sit on the edge of the bed. I get in, and move carefully, not wanting to hurt her. When I'm fully on the bed, she places her ear over my heart, and begins running her fingers on my chest. I know more conversation is not possible, so I allow myself to lean back into the pillow, holding her close and rubbing a hand up and down her back. I'll think about the rest tomorrow, but for now, this is enough.

__________

Taehyung

All I know is that she woke up. Namjoon hyung sent a text last night, but didn't give many details. The hospital cafeteria is pretty empty for almost lunch time, but I'm sitting here, waiting for the guys, so we can hear what's going on. Jungkook's Mom arrived last night also, and has Olivia with her, so at least she won't be hearing bad news, if it is... I hope it's not...

"Taehyungie? You good?"

"I'm alright Jimin-ah... Just hoping to hear good news, you know?"

"Yeah... Me too."

Jimin and I sit together, sipping our drinks then the rest of the guys enter. I don't say anything, just wait for Namjoon hyung to explain. As the rest settle, grabbing drinks and snacks, they seem light-hearted. I am too nervous to joke with anyone right now. There's a feeling in my gut that if she woke up and is fine, we wouldn't have had to wait to hear. It would have been sent in the original message, and we would have gotten the first night of restful sleep all week.

"Tae? What's up?"

I turn to Namjoon hyung, and only raise and eyebrow and shrug. Everyone is sitting now, and finally Hyung tells us what's happening.

"Sophia woke up... I know I told you guys that... Jungkook is still with her obviously. I did talk with her Dr about a couple things... Mainly that she didn't seem to understand English."

"What?!?" We all almost yell at Hyung, hearing this.

"Her brain is damaged in the area of speech and language comprehension. He doesn't know if this is permanent. For now, Jungkook, or someone that understands English, should be with her."

"Is there anything else Joon?" Yoongi asks.

"Well... When I was there, she tried to speak, but it came out garbled... She wasn't able to form words... I don't know if that was just part of waking up and getting the breathing tube out... The Dr said it could be something she needs therapy for."

"She can't talk?" I almost whisper the question, and all eyes move to me.

"I don't know Taehyung... It was still early, and she was confused and scared after she woke... We'll know more today. I got permission for us to meet her, but one at a time since Jungkook is there. At some point, we need to try to get him to go see Olivia, and I'll stay while that happens to interpret if needed. Ok?"

"I'll go first... Then I'll make sure he comes with me to see his daughter and mother." Yoongi piped up. He didn't give anyone time to argue, and just stood and walked out. Hobi hyung looked around to see all our disappointed faces... "Sorry guys... He's been anxious about seeing Jungkook..."

We stayed in the cafeteria, talking quietly, and thought of all the things we wanted to say to Sophia when we see her. I'm happy she's still in the world, but worried about her condition. Will she be the same? What will happen with Aera's trial? What about the divorce? Too many ugly things could still happen, and I don't want her to get hurt anymore...

Yoongi

As excited as I know Taehyung is, I really need to speak to Jungkook. I also want to see what's happening with Sophia, because it will determine my next course of action. I received a call from my Dad, and he says that Aera's attorneys are close to getting her released, and the divorce overturned. Where she's getting the money I can only imagine, but I'm scared that without Sophia's testimony next week, she'll get away with what she did.

The Dr who drugged our friend, has disappeared. Without him, Aera has a good chance to beat the charges. I know this is not going to be good news to Jungkook... But he needs to know about it, and I need him to tell me how far he wants to take it, to be rid of "the problem". We'll talk about it when I bring him with me. But first... I can't wait to see Sophia.

I see the door is half open, and I pause to look inside. Jungkook is sitting on the edge of the bed, and they are eating some pudding. It's a cute scene how he spoons some up, and flys it to her mouth, only to redirect to his own. She slaps his arm, but the grunt that leaves her mouth makes my smile fall. She can't talk...

I enter to not be a creepy voyeur, and paste a big smile on my face. When they turn to me, I see Sophia get shy and there is panic in her eyes. Jungkook adjusts his sitting position to face me, and I move to sit on the stool next to her bed.

"I heard the most beautiful girl I know is awake, so I had to come. How are you Sophia?"

I see her look at Jungkook, but turn back and smile. I don't pressure her for an answer, knowing that she is struggling. After a few seconds she tries to say something, and I see Jungkook reach a hand to hold hers.

"I-I... Ggggoo"

"I'm so glad to see you're eyes... I know that your daughter will be thrilled as well."

"O-Oli....aaanmmm..."

She gives up and I hate what happens next. In a fit of frustration, she begins to hit her own head, until Jungkook grabs her hands. Frustrated tears are trickling from her eyes, and Jungkook just wipes them away.

"Stop that love... You're going to hurt yourself... You're doing really great. Please don't feel defeated. You'll get it... The Dr says you just need to practice, and you are... It's alright."

She nods, but refuses to make eye contact with him. I know he is trying to be strong, but I can see how tired he is. He'll crack if he doesn't get out and release this, but I need to put it the right way. I don't want to make her feel bad, and I want to just talk to her, but I'm worried. She seems to feel the need to speak, and this is hard right now.

"Hey... Sophia-ah... Don't talk if it's difficult right now. I know what you want to say to me anyway. I've missed you so much also... Hobi really CAN be the most annoying human on the planet... And besides yourself, Olivia is more beautiful than any other girl... Also, I'll bring you some ear plugs for your visit with Jin hyung... Right?"

A smile like the brightest star, graces her lips, and she stares into my eyes. I chuckle at how I can almost hear her giggling. She would deny that Hobi is annoying, or that she needs ear plugs for Jin hyung, but it's the truth.

"I'm sorry that you have to let Jungkook dominate the conversation for now... How about I drag him with me, and make sure he visits your daughter?"

"Hyung... Wait" "No Jungkook... Your Mom is here, and she wants to see your ugly face. Olivia also needs her Dad to tell her what's going on with her Mom..."

"J-Jungggg.... Aannmmmm... G-Gooo"

Sophia is glaring at Jungkook, and pointing at me. He knows that he has to leave, but it's understandably difficult.

"Kookie-ah... Namjoon and the others are here. They want to visit, and Namjoon will sit in. You know that it will be fine."

"Fine... Just give me 5 minutes. Go get Namjoon hyung, and I'll be ready when you get back."

He is upset with me, but it has to be done. We need to solve the Aera issue, and not in front of Sophia.

"Alright... Sophia-ah... I love you... I don't say that mushy shit often... But it's the truth. Do you have your phone? I'll text you. Ok?"

I move to hug the girl who's nodding at me with a smile on her face. Her arms squeeze me, and I feel so happy that she is alive. I won't let anything, or anyone, hurt this girl again.

_______________________

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