CRIMSON LIES (TAEKOOK)

4 .(CAFFEINATED)

Jungkook's morning before date ....🤌

Jungkook woke up feeling unsure about when he had fallen asleep the previous night. The sunlight filtering through his curtains did little to soothe his restless thoughts. He was in good spirits, though, as the prospect of his first date lingered in his mind. *Should I give him a small complimentary gift?* he wondered, but quickly doubted himself. *What if it makes me come off as too forward or even a little creepy?*

Pushing the thought aside, he sighed. Hoseok had advised him to just be himself and treat Taehyung well. But the idea of showing up empty-handed still nagged at him. Maybe he could bake something simple? Muffins, perhaps? Or macarons? But the idea of being "affluent" enough to impress someone tugged at his insecurities. His parents were humble farmers who owned only a small plot of land. Jungkook's scholarships covered his financial needs, but there was rarely room for indulgences.

As he sat on his bed, lost in thought, Hoseok entered the room and immediately noticed his tense demeanor.

"What's going on in that big brain of yours, Jungkook?" Hoseok teased, sitting beside him. "Do you not want to go on the date?"

Jungkook snapped out of his thoughts and looked at his hyung. "It's not that. I'm going. I just don't know what to do. Should I get him a small gift? But what if it's too much? It's my first date... I'm not sure what will impress him."

Hoseok laughed heartily. "A gift isn't necessary, Kookie. Just focus on having fun and getting to know him."

Jungkook hesitated. "But, Hyung, I *want* to give him something. You said he's turned down others because he likes me. That's rare. I used to ignore people who only liked me for how I looked, but... Taehyung seems different. He feels genuine. I want to make an effort, too."

Hoseok's teasing smile softened into understanding. "I get it, Jungkook. A thoughtful gesture would mean a lot. So, what are you thinking of?"

"I can't afford anything extravagant," Jungkook admitted, his voice tinged with frustration.

"Affluence doesn't matter, Jungkook," Hoseok said, shaking his head. "A simple, heartfelt gesture goes a long way. Don't overthink it."

Jungkook thought for a moment before speaking again. "Maybe... macarons? Strawberry ones?"

Hoseok's face lit up. "That's a fantastic idea! Bake him some delicious macarons. And you know what? My friend owns a café near V.C. Road. I'll call him and make a reservation for you two."

Jungkook hesitated, frowning slightly. "Hyung, I don't think that's a good idea. I don't want to rely on you too much. I want to show him who I am-not someone pretending to be more."

Hoseok placed a hand on Jungkook's shoulder, his expression serious but kind. "Listen, Kookie. Everyone dreams of a perfect first date. I'm just helping you set the stage. After today, you can reveal everything about yourself, but for now, focus on making this special for Taehyung."

Jungkook nodded slowly. "You're right. Thank you, Hyung."

"Don't mention it. But hey," Hoseok added with a grin, "call your dad and ask him to send some strawberries from the farm next season."

Jungkook laughed. "That'll take two months, Hyung."

"Well, in the meantime, get to baking! Oh, and wrap those macarons with a nice ribbon. There's a pink one in my closet," Hoseok said as he stood to leave.