7 AM.
Sunlight streamed in through the gap in the window of the accommodation, but Jungkook could not fall asleep easily.
My body felt incredibly heavy, perhaps due to the practice that continued until dawn, and my voice was hoarse and hoarse compared to usual.
"..."
I tried clearing my throat a few times, but it didn't clear up completely.
It'll be fine.
This performance was too important to be dismissed with just that one remark.
Afternoon rehearsal.
Jungkook picked up the microphone as usual and started singing.
The first verse was decent.
However, the moment it went into the high notes, the voice cracked ever so slightly.
"for a moment."
The sound director raised his hand.
"Jungkook, I'll go again just this once."
Jungkook nodded.
"yes."
Start again.
This time, I put a little more effort into it.
However, the results were similar.
My neck didn't cooperate as much as I wanted.
I guess I'm not feeling well today.
Jungkook forced a smile at the staff member's words.
It's okay. I'll try one more time.
Upon hearing those words, Taehyung looked at Jungkook without saying a word.
Because we had spent more time together than anyone else, I could quickly tell that saying it was okay didn't really mean it was okay.
After the rehearsal ended.
The members and staff left the practice room one by one.
Jungkook was left alone and turned on the music again.
Just one more time.
Repeating intro.
Same choreography.
Same route.
The desire to become even slightly perfect kept my body moving.
I wonder how much time has passed.
The door opened again.
They haven't left yet.
It was Taehyung.
He slowly walked inside with his hands in his hoodie pockets.
Jungkook smiled as he turned off the music.
I was planning to leave right away.
"lie."
"yes?"
"I know you're the type of person who says you'll be there soon but practices for two hours."
Jungkook wore an embarrassed expression.
"...You didn't go either, brother."
I left my water bottle behind.
Taehyung picked up the water bottle lying on the floor and held out another one to Jungkook.
Drink up.
"are you okay."
"This is the first time I've seen someone who claims to be fine look this exhausted."
Jungkook eventually accepted the water bottle.
A moment of silence followed.
Taehyung stood in front of the mirror and spoke slowly.
Is it a burden?
Jeongguk did not answer.
But that silence alone was enough.
This tour.
"...A little."
I keep thinking that I have to do well.
The fans have waited a long time, too.
I feel like I shouldn't make a mistake.
Jungkook stared only at the floor.
I used to think that I just needed to enjoy it.
These days, every single stage feels bigger.
Taehyung smiled for a moment.
"so do i."
Jungkook lifted his head.
"You too, brother?"
Even though I got used to the stage, that didn't mean the nervousness went away.
Taehyung looked at himself in the mirror and continued speaking.
Still, one thing hasn't changed.
What is it?
